Global Outrage as 26 Tourists Killed in Terror Attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir
In a devastating act of terrorism, 26 tourists lost their lives and at least 10 others were seriously injured on Tuesday in a targeted attack in Pahalgam, one of Jammu and Kashmir’s most popular tourist destinations.
The assailants opened fire on a group of visitors at Baisaran, a picturesque but remote meadow located off the main tourist track in Pahalgam. According to officials, two of the injured are in critical condition and are receiving treatment at a local hospital.
The horrifying incident has drawn widespread condemnation from across the world, with global leaders expressing grief, solidarity, and strong support for India in its fight against terrorism.
International Condemnation Pours In
U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who is currently touring India with his family, expressed his sorrow and solidarity in a statement posted on social media platform X.
“Usha and I extend our condolences to the victims of the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India. Over the past few days, we have been overcome with the beauty of this country and its people. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they mourn this horrific attack,” he said.
Israel was among the first countries to respond. Ambassador to India Reuven Azar voiced his deep concern, saying:
“Sad and appalled following the terrorist attack in J&K which took the lives of innocent civilians. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families and our support is for the security forces in their struggle against terror.”
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar echoed the sentiment, stating:
“Deeply saddened by the heinous terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. Israel stands united with India in the fight against terror.”
France’s Ambassador to India, Thierry Mathou, also condemned the violence in no uncertain terms.
“Strong condemnation of the dastardly attack in Jammu & Kashmir. My thoughts are with the victims and their families. France stands in solidarity with India in the fight against terrorism.”
The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in New Delhi joined the global voices of sympathy, stating:
“We strongly condemn the terrorist attack in the city of Pahalgam, which resulted in the death and injury of a large number of innocent people. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the government and people of India, especially to the families of the victims, and wish a speedy recovery to those injured.”
Hervé Delphin, Ambassador of the European Union Delegation to India, also expressed deep sadness.
“Deeply shocked and saddened by the despicable Pahalgam terrorist attack against innocent tourists. Our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and best wishes of recovery to those injured. The EU stands against all forms of terrorism.”
Singapore’s High Commissioner to India, Simon Wong, said:
“Shocked to hear of the reprehensible attack on innocent tourists in Pahalgam, J&K. Our thoughts are with the families of the injured and deceased.”
Argentina’s Ambassador to India, Mariano Caucino, joined in condemning the violence, stating:
“We convey our condolences to the victims of this abominable terrorist act. Argentina stands with India in rejecting all forms of terrorism, extremism, and bigotry. Always with Life and against Terror.”
Indian Government’s Response
Back home, Union Home Minister Amit Shah briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on an official visit to Saudi Arabia, about the incident.
Following the briefing, Shah flew to Srinagar and chaired a high-level security review meeting with top law enforcement and intelligence officials.
He is expected to visit Pahalgam on Wednesday to assess the situation on the ground and meet with security personnel and the victims’ families.
This attack marks the first major terror strike targeting tourists in Jammu and Kashmir this year. The last such incident occurred in May of the previous year, also in Pahalgam, where two tourists sustained injuries in a smaller-scale assault.
The gruesome nature of Tuesday’s attack, coupled with its targeting of peaceful tourists, has sent shockwaves across the nation and the international community.
Authorities are on high alert, with investigations underway to identify and apprehend the perpetrators behind this heinous act.
