A horrifying terrorist attack rocked the tourist town of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, claiming the lives of 26 individuals, including an intelligence officer, and injuring several others. The incident occurred when a group of terrorists, reportedly affiliated with the Pakistan-based outfit The Resistance Front—an offshoot of the proscribed Lashkar-e-Taiba—opened indiscriminate fire on a crowd of tourists gathered in Baisaran Valley.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of terror and chaos as multiple rounds of gunfire echoed through the valley. The attackers, who emerged suddenly from the nearby woods, unleashed a hail of bullets before vanishing into the forest cover, leaving behind a scene of devastation and grief. This incident marks one of the most brutal terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir in recent years.

Global Leaders Express Solidarity and Condemnation

The attack triggered a strong global outcry, with world leaders extending heartfelt condolences and affirming support for India in its fight against terrorism.

United States

US President Donald Trump expressed deep concern over the tragic incident. "Deeply disturbing news out of Kashmir. The United States stands strong with India against terrorism," he wrote, adding his prayers for the souls of the deceased and wishing the injured a speedy recovery. Vice President JD Vance, currently visiting India, also voiced his sorrow. He wrote, “Usha and I extend our condolences to the victims... Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they mourn this horrific attack.”

Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin denounced the attack, calling it a "brutal crime" that could not be justified. He stressed that those responsible must face appropriate punishment and reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to enhanced counter-terrorism cooperation with India.

Middle Eastern Nations: Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Iran

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman conveyed his anguish and solidarity, offering full support to India. The UAE also issued a strong condemnation, calling the attack a “heinous act” and offering condolences and wishes for a swift recovery to the injured. Iran, too, extended heartfelt sympathy to the people and government of India, voicing hopes for peace and stability in the region.

Prime Minister Modi Vows Justice and Returns from Abroad

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was in Saudi Arabia on an official visit at the time of the attack, decided to cut short his trip and return to India immediately. Upon learning about the incident, he spoke with Home Minister Amit Shah, who was promptly dispatched to Kashmir to oversee investigations and coordinate with intelligence and security agencies.

In a statement posted on X, PM Modi condemned the act in the strongest terms, stating, “Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones... All possible assistance is being provided to the affected.” He assured that the perpetrators of the heinous act would not be spared, declaring that India’s resolve to fight terrorism remains firm and unshakable.

I strongly condemn the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest. All possible assistance is being provided to those affected.

Those behind this heinous act will be brought…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 22, 2025

Wider International Support and Regional Reactions

Support also came from other parts of the world:

• Italy: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed sorrow over the attack and extended condolences in a message written in Italian.
• Israel: The Israeli Foreign Minister was among the first to respond, offering solidarity and emphasizing Israel’s unity with India against terrorism.
• Sri Lanka: Strongly condemning the attack, the Sri Lankan government expressed unwavering support for India and reiterated its commitment to regional peace and the fight against terrorism.

A Tragic Reminder of the Threat of Terrorism

Tuesday's attack has left a deep scar on the collective conscience of the nation and the global community. It serves as a tragic reminder of the persistent threat posed by terrorism and the need for continued international cooperation to combat extremist violence. As India mourns the loss of innocent lives, the unified global response has shown that the world stands with it during this dark hour.