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On April 22, 2025, a devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, claimed the lives of 26 individuals, including 25 Indian tourists and one Nepalese national, while injuring over 20 others.This incident, marking one of the deadliest assaults on civilians in the region in recent years, has significantly escalated tensions between India and Pakistan.
Pahalgam Attack Details: What Happened
The attack occurred around 2:50 PM in the Baisaran Valley, a popular tourist destination near Pahalgam.Seven militants, reportedly affiliated with The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, emerged from nearby forests dressed in military-style uniforms and opened fire on tourists.Eyewitnesses recounted that the assailants demanded victims to recite Islamic verses, targeting those who failed to comply.The attackers used M4 carbines and AK-47s, firing approximately 70 rounds during the assault.
Among the victims were individuals from various Indian states, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, and West Bengal.Notably, an Indian Navy officer and an Intelligence Bureau official were also among the deceased.
In the wake of the attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his visit to Saudi Arabia and convened a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security.The Indian government announced several measures:
- Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty: India temporarily halted the treaty, which governs water sharing with Pakistan.
- Closure of the Attari-Wagah Border: The main land crossing between India and Pakistan was shut down .
- Visa Restrictions: Visas issued to Pakistani nationals under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme were canceled, and existing holders were given 48 hours to leave India.
Home Minister Amit Shah visited Srinagar to assess the situation, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh pledged a “swift and decisive” response to the perpetrators.Security forces launched extensive operations to apprehend those responsible.
Pakistan’s Response
Pakistan condemned the attack and denied any involvement, labeling India’s accusations as “baseless.”The Pakistani government expressed concern over the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, calling it a violation of international obligations.
International Reactions
The international community widely condemned the attack.U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who was visiting India at the time, expressed solidarity with the victims.Leaders from the U.K., China, and the European Union also denounced the violence and called for restraint from both nations.
Pahalgam Attack Update: Current Status
Investigations are ongoing, with the National Investigation Agency (NIA) leading the probe.Sketches of three suspects have been released, and security forces are conducting operations in the region to apprehend the attackers.The attack has led to a significant decline in tourism in Kashmir, with many visitors canceling their trips amid security concerns.
The Pahalgam attack of 2025 stands as a grim reminder of the persistent challenges in the region.As India and Pakistan navigate the aftermath, the international community watches closely, hoping for de-escalation and a return to peace.
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