A brutal tourist massacre in occupied Kashmir has left 26 people dead and 17 injured, drawing strong condemnation from Pakistan and fierce vows of retaliation from India. The attack unfolded in the popular tourist area of Pahalgam, located in the Anantnag district, a region often frequented by thousands during the summer.
Deadliest Civilian Attack in Decades
The ambush, which occurred on Tuesday, is the most deadly assault on civilians in the region since 2000. Armed gunmen opened fire on a group of tourists, killing only men, including one from Nepal. According to AFP, the identities were confirmed via hospital records and police verification.
The targeted area, known for its scenic beauty and religious pilgrimage routes, quickly turned into a high-security zone. Ambulances transported the victims’ bodies to Srinagar, while Indian paramilitary forces swept the area and helicopters hovered overhead searching for the perpetrators.
Pakistan Voices Concern
Reacting to the tragedy, Pakistan’s Foreign Office issued a statement expressing sorrow over the loss of life. Spokesperson Shafqat Khan said, “We are concerned at the loss of tourists’ lives in an attack in Anantnag district of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.” He offered condolences to the families of the victims and extended prayers for the injured.
Former Foreign Minister Khurram Dastgir Khan also shared a similar message on X (formerly Twitter), reinforcing Pakistan’s position on the humanitarian cost of violence in the disputed region.
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India Promises Swift Action
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi denounced the killings, labeling them a “heinous act.” Defence Minister Rajnath Singh took a hardline stance, warning that the attackers—and their supporters—would soon “hear our response loud and clear.”
Speaking in New Delhi, Singh said, “We won’t stop at the gunmen. We will reach those pulling the strings behind the scenes.” While he did not specify who was behind the attack, the tone pointed to a wide-reaching security and intelligence operation in response.
Indian forces reported killing two individuals allegedly attempting to infiltrate the area shortly after the attack. A lesser-known group called The Resistance Front reportedly claimed responsibility through various Indian media outlets.
Mounting International Reaction
The attack coincided with the visit of U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who is on a four-day tour of India with his family. In the aftermath, former U.S. President Donald Trump extended his full support to Prime Minister Modi. Countries like China also condemned the violence, calling for restraint and justice.
Victims from Across India
The victims hailed from various Indian states, including Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Karnataka. Among the deceased was an Indian Navy officer. Their remains were airlifted from the valley as mourning families awaited their arrival.
Shutdown and Heightened Security
As a response to the massacre, civil society groups in occupied Kashmir have called for a complete shutdown to mourn the victims. Shops, educational institutions, and offices are expected to remain closed. Meanwhile, Modi has scheduled a security cabinet meeting to assess the situation and determine next steps.
With tensions rising and an atmosphere of fear returning to the valley, the occupied Kashmir attack marks a grim chapter in the region’s ongoing conflict.
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