2025 Pahalgam terrorist attack: Difference between revisions

2025 Pahalgam terrorist attack (edit)

Revision as of 11:52, 13 May 2025

29,820 bytes removed , 13 May

no edit summary

Bharatwiki Socrates

Autopatrolled, New page reviewers, Rollbackers

2,192

edits

@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
-{{Short description|Militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir}}
+{{Short description|Attack in Indian-administered Kashmir}}
-{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2025}}
+{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2025}}
-{{Use Indian English|date=April 2025}}
+{{Use Indian English|date=May 2025}}
 {{Infobox civilian attack
-| title = 2025 Pahalgam terrorist attack
+| title = 2025 Pahalgam attack
 | partof = the [[insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir]]
 | image = Baisaran Valley Kashmir24102023.jpg
-| caption = View of the Valley where the attack occured
+| caption = View of the valley where the attack occurred
-| map = {{Location map|Jammu and Kashmir
+| map = {{Location map|Jammu and Kashmir#India
    | width     = 300
    | lat_deg   = 34 | lat_min = 00 | lat_sec = 13 | lat_dir = N
@@ Line 16: / Line 16: @@
 }}
 | map_alt = Map showing the location of the attack in Jammu and Kashmir, India
-| map_caption = Location of the attack in the Indian‑administered [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)|Jammu and Kashmir]]
+| map_caption = Location of the attack in [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)|Jammu and Kashmir]]
-| location = [[ Baisaran Valley]], [[Pahalgam]], [[Anantnag district]], Indian-administered [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)|Jammu and Kashmir]]
+| location = [[Baisaran Valley]], [[Pahalgam]], [[Anantnag district]], [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)|Jammu and Kashmir]]
 | coordinates = {{Coord|34|00|13|N|75|20|01|E|type:event_region:IN-JK|display=inline,title}}
 | date = 22 April 2025
 | time =
 | timezone =
-| target = [[Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir|Tourists]]<!-- Do not change this without discussing in the talk page-->
+| target = [[Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir|Tourists]]<ref name="CNN 23 Apr"/><!-- Do not change this without discussing in the talk page-->
-| type = [[Mass shooting]]<br />[[Mass murder]]
+| type = [[Mass shooting]]<br/>[[Mass murder]]<br />
-| fatalities = 28<ref>{{Cite news |date=April 23, 2025 |title=Taliban condemns Pahalgam massacre, calls attack a blow to regional security |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/taliban-condemns-pahalgam-massacre-calls-attack-a-blow-to-regional-security/articleshow/120563204.cms |access-date=April 23, 2025 |publisher=[[The Times of India]] |language=en}}</ref>
+| fatalities = 26
-| injuries = 20+
+| injuries = 20
 | victims = ''See [[#Casualties|casualties]]''
-| weapons = [[M4 carbine]]s, [[AK-47]]s<ref name="IE weapons">{{Cite news |title=Terrorists were wearing camouflage outfits, carried M4 carbine, AK-47s, fired 70 rounds: Initial probe |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/pahalgam-terror-attack-terrorists-were-wearing-camouflage-outfits-carried-m4-carbine-ak-47s-initial-probe-9959852/ |access-date=23 April 2025 |website=[[The Indian Express]]}}</ref>
+| weapons = [[AK-47]]s, [[M4 carbine]]s<ref name="Newsweek 22 Apr"/>
-| numparts = 7<ref name="IE 7 terrorists">{{Cite web |date=23 April 2025 |title=Probe indicates 7 terrorists, including 4–5 from Pakistan, behind Pahalgam attack |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/pahalgam-attack-terrorists-pakistan-9961045/ |website=The Indian Express }}</ref>
+| numparts = 5
-| motive = Opposition to alleged non‑local settlement in Kashmir<ref>{{Cite web |title = Pahalgam: What's 'The Resistance Front', LeT 'proxy' behind the deadliest terror attack on tourists in Kashmir? |work = Mint |publisher = HT Media Ltd. |date = 22 April 2025 |url = https://www.livemint.com/news/india/pahalgam-whats-the-resistance-front-let-proxy-said-to-be-behind-deadliest-terror-attack-on-tourists-in-kashmir/amp-11745329734543.html |access-date = 22 April 2025}}</ref>
+| motive =
-| perpetrators = {{Tree list}}
+| perpetrators = {{flagicon image|TRF logo.png}} [[The Resistance Front]] (accused by India, denied)<ref>{{Cite news |date=26 April 2025 |title=The Resistance Front denies involvement in Pahalgam attack as global pressure mounts |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/as-pressure-mounts-trf-denies-involvement-in-pahalgam-attack/article69495143.ece |access-date=12 May 2025 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><br>{{flagicon|India}} [[India]] (accused by Pakistan)<ref>{{Cite web |date=25 April 2025 |title=‘It’s an all-out war’ says Pakistan Defence minister, calling the Pahalgam attack ‘staged’ |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/world-news/india-staged-pahalgam-terror-attack-says-pak-defence-minister/3821500/ |access-date=12 May 2025 |website=Financial Express|language=en}}</ref>
-*[[Lashkar-e-Taiba]]
-**[[The Resistance Front]]<ref>{{Cite news |title=What is The Resistance Front? Hafiz Saeed's TRF claims responsibility for Pahalgam attack on tourists |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/what-is-the-resistance-front-hafiz-saeeds-trf-claims-responsibility-for-pahalgam-attack-on-tourists/articleshow/120524611.cms |access-date=22 April 2025 |website=[[Times of India]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=What is TRF, LeT terror group offshoot that has taken responsibility for Pahalgam attack? |url=https://www.firstpost.com/explainers/what-is-trf-let-terror-group-offshoot-that-has-taken-responsibility-for-pahalgam-attack-13882193.html |access-date=22 April 2025 |website=[[Firstpost]]}}</ref>
-{{Tree list/end}}
 }}
-{{Islamic terror attacks in India (since 1947)}}
 {{Terrorist attacks in India (since 2001)}}
-On 22 April 2025, a terrorist attack at the [[Baisaran Valley|Baisaran meadow]] near [[Pahalgam]] in the [[Anantnag district]] of [[Indian-administered Kashmir|Indian-administered]] [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)|Jammu and Kashmir]], killed at least 28 tourists and injured more than 20 others. The attack, one of the deadliest in the region after the [[revocation of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir]], targeted civilians and was reportedly aimed at resisting demographic changes in the [[Kashmir Valley]].
+The '''2025 Pahalgam attack''' was an attack on tourists by five armed terrorists near [[Pahalgam]] in the Indian-administered [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)|Jammu and Kashmir]] in which 26 civilians were killed on 22 April 2025.<ref name="Newsweek 22 Apr"/><ref name = "NYTimes-Hindus">{{Cite news |last1=Mashal |first1=Mujib |last2=Raj |first2=Suhasini |date=23 April 2025 |title=India Takes Aim at Pakistan After Slaughter of Civilians in Kashmir |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/23/world/asia/kashmir-attack-india-pakistan.html |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331|quote="A list of the victims circulating online, which was verified by local officials in Kashmir, showed that 25 of the 26 killed were Hindus."}}</ref><ref name="DH-non-Muslim">{{Cite web |title=Pahalgam and Pakistan's two-nation delusion |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/opinion/pahalgam-and-pakistan-s-two-nation-delusion-3513370 |access-date=6 May 2025 |website=Deccan Herald |language=en|quote=" recite the Kalima — a Muslim declaration of faith — to identify and then execute non-Muslims"}}</ref> The militants mainly targeted Hindu tourists, though a Christian tourist and a local Muslim were also killed in the attack.<ref name="Newsweek 22 Apr">Danish Manzoor Bhat, [https://www.newsweek.com/kashmir-massacre-trump-putin-iran-israel-condemn-jihadist-attack-hindu-tourists-2062760 Kashmir Massacre: Trump, Putin, Iran, Israel Condemn Jihadist Attack on Hindu Tourists], Newsweek, 22 April 2025. Updated 23 April 2025. "Witnesses reported the assailants shouted Islamic slogans and specifically targeted people who appeared to be Hindu."</ref><ref name="NYT 23 Apr"/><ref name ="AP-Hindus">{{Cite web |date=30 April 2025 |title=Indian survivors of Kashmir attack say gunmen asked if they were Hindus and opened fire |url=https://apnews.com/article/kashmir-attack-india-pakistan-victims-a5492962cd86174262cb73b85c04c51a |website=AP News |language=en| quote="Indian survivors of Kashmir attack say gunmen asked if they were Hindus and opened fire"}}</ref> The attackers, armed with [[M4 carbine]]s and [[AK-47]]s, entered the tourist spot in [[Baisaran Valley]] surrounded by dense pine forests.<ref name="IE-AK47">{{cite news |title=Terrorists were wearing camouflage outfits, carried M4 carbine, AK-47s, fired 70 rounds: Initial probe |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/pahalgam-terror-attack-terrorists-were-wearing-camouflage-outfits-carried-m4-carbine-ak-47s-initial-probe-9959852/ |date=23 April 2025 |newspaper=[[The Indian Express]] }}</ref> This incident is considered the deadliest attack on civilians in India since the [[2008 Mumbai attacks]].<ref name="BBC 23 Apr">{{Cite web |date=23 April 2025 |title=Pahalgam: Rage and grief after 26 killed in Indian-administered Kashmir |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cze10y59j91o |website=BBC |quote="Most of the victims were Hindu men" }}</ref><ref name="TH-Terrorists">{{cite web |last1=Singh |first1=Vijaita |date=3 May 2025 |title=Pahalgam terrorist attack: Terrorists mingled with crowd, herded them towards armed members who killed tourists at Baisaran |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/pahalgam-attack-terrorists-mingled-with-crowd-herded-them-towards-armed-members-who-killed-toursists-at-baisaran/article69534814.ece |work=The Hindu}}</ref>
-[[The Resistance Front]] (TRF), an offshoot of the militant group [[Lashkar-e-Taiba]], claimed responsibility for the attack.
+[[The Resistance Front]] (TRF), which is believed to be an offshoot of Pakistan-based UN-designated terrorist group [[Lashkar-e-Taiba]] (LeT),<ref name="Miller">Manjari Chatterjee Miller, [https://www.cfr.org/expert-brief/latest-attack-kashmir-escalates-india-pakistan-tensions The Latest Attack in Kashmir Escalates India-Pakistan Tensions], Council on Foreign Relations, 25 April 2025.</ref><ref name ="AJ-26-tourist"/><ref name="Reuters 23 Apr">{{cite news |author=Shilpa Jamkhandikar |date=23 April 2025 |title=What is The Resistance Front, the militant group linked to Pahalgam attack? |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/kashmir-resistance-group-that-claimed-attack-tourists-indian-kashmir-2025-04-23/ |work=[[Reuters]]}}</ref> initially claimed responsibility for the attack.<ref name="AJ 23 Apr">{{Cite web |last=Sharma |first=Yashraj |date=23 April 2025 |title=What is The Resistance Front, the group claiming the deadly Kashmir attack? |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/4/23/what-is-the-resistance-front-the-group-behind-the-deadly-kashmir-attack |website=Al Jazeera|quote="opposed the granting of residency permits to “outsiders”, who critics say could help India change the demography of the disputed region"}}</ref> TRF released a statement that the attack was in opposition to non-local settlement in the region resulting from the [[Revocation of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir|abolition of the special status]] of Kashmir.<ref name ="AJ-26-tourist">{{cite news |title= 'Act of war': What happened in Kashmir attack that killed 26 tourists? |url= https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/4/23/act-of-war-what-happened-in-kashmir-attack-that-killed-26-tourists |date= 23 April 2025 |agency= [[Al Jazeera English]] }}</ref> However, TRF later denied involvement in the attack and blamed Indian cyber-intelligence for earlier reports that it claimed responsibility.<ref>{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=26 April 2025 |title=The Resistance Front denies involvement in Pahalgam attack as global pressure mounts |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/as-pressure-mounts-trf-denies-involvement-in-pahalgam-attack/article69495143.ece |access-date=12 May 2025 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> Previously, TRF has claimed responsibility for several attacks on Indian-administered Kashmir.<ref name="Quint TRF">{{Cite web |last=Basak |first=Saptarshi |date=11 October 2021 |title=The Resistance Front: The Invisible, LeT-Backed Outfit Terrorising Kashmir |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/india/the-resistance-front-the-invisible-let-backed-outfit-terrorising-kashmir |work=[[The Quint]] |url-access=subscription}}</ref>
-== Conflict history ==
+The militants singled out the men and asked for their religion before shooting the Hindu and Christian tourists.<ref name= "TH-asked-religion">{{cite news |first=Vijaita |last=Singh |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/terrorists-kept-firing-for-25-30-minutes-recalls-pahalgam-eyewitness/article69483296.ece |title=Pahalgam terror attack: Terrorists asked name and religion of male tourists, shot them, says survivor |newspaper=[[The Hindu]] |date=23 April 2025 }}</ref><ref name = "Reu-Islamic-verse"/> The attackers also asked some tourists to recite the [[Islamic]] ''[[Six Kalimas|kalima]]'', a Muslim declaration of faith, to identify non-Muslims.<ref name="DH-non-Muslim"/><ref name = "Reu-Islamic-verse">{{cite news |last=Bukhari |first=Fayaz |title=Militants in Indian Kashmir segregate men from women and children before opening fire |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/militants-indian-kashmir-segregate-men-women-children-before-opening-fire-2025-04-23/ |work=[[Reuters]] |date=23 April 2025|quote="When the militants reached their tent, Asavari said they asked her father, Santosh Jagdale, to come out and recite an Islamic verse." }}</ref> Of the 26 people killed, 25 were tourists, and one was a local Muslim pony ride operator who tried to wrestle a gun from the attackers.<ref name ="NDTV-Victims"/><ref name = "BS-Pony"/> The tourists included several newlywed couples, and the men were shot point-blank in front of their wives.<ref name="AP-Hindus"/><ref name="TOI-Shubham"/><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/terrorists-cursed-modi-asked-my-father-to-recite-islamic-verse-before-shooting-him-daughter/article69480148.ece |title=Terrorists cursed Modi, asked my father to recite Islamic verse before shooting him: Daughter |newspaper=[[The Hindu]] |date=23 April 2025}}</ref>
-An [[Jammu and Kashmir insurgency|Islamist armed insurgency]] broke out in [[Jammu and Kashmir (state)|Jammu and Kashmir]] in 1989, and has been ongoing since, with violence having reduced drastically in recent years. In 2019, India revoked [[Jammu and Kashmir (state)|Jammu and Kashmir]]'s [[Revocation of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir|special status]], dividing the state into two [[Union territory|union territories]] — [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)|Jammu and Kashmir]] and [[Ladakh]]. This move empowered local authorities to issue [[Domicile (Jammu and Kashmir)|domicile status]] to people who did not earlier qualify, allowing them to buy land and obtain jobs in the disputed territory. On 10 April, the revenue minister revealed that 83,000 people have been issued domicile certificates under the new rules in the last two years.<ref name="Dawn">{{cite news |title=At least 24 killed in occupied Kashmir gunmen attack on tourists: police source |url=https://www.dawn.com/news/1905917/at-least-24-killed-in-occupied-kashmir-gunmen-attack-on-tourists-police-source |work=DAWN |date=22 April 2025 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=10 April 2025 |title=Over 80,000 'non-state subjects' have received domicile certificates in last two years, J&K govt says |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/over-80000-non-state-subjects-have-received-domicile-certificates-in-last-two-years-jk-govt-says-9935364/ |website=The Indian Express }}</ref> According to Forbes, Kashmir was already the most militarized zone in the world.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Singh |first=Rani |title=Kashmir: The World's Most Militarized Zone, Violence After Years Of Comparative Calm |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/ranisingh/2016/07/12/kashmir-in-the-worlds-most-militarized-zone-violence-after-years-of-comparative-calm/ |access-date=23 April 2025 |website=Forbes }}</ref>
-Following the revocation of the region's limited autonomy, India began a [[2019–2021 Jammu and Kashmir lockdown|massive crackdown]]. This led to a deterioration of [[India–Pakistan relations|relations with Pakistan]] amid the [[Kashmir dispute]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=23 April 2025 |title=At least 20 feared killed in militant attack on tourists in Indian Kashmir, security sources say |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-seven-injured-militant-attack-indias-kashmir-india-today-tv-says-2025-04-22/ |work=Reuters}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Raj |first1=Suhasini |last2=Mashal |first2=Mujib |title=Killing of Civilians Near Pahalgam in Kashmir Shatters Illusion of Calm |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/23/world/asia/kashmir-attack-india-pakistan.html |website=The New York Times |access-date=23 April 2025 |date=23 April 2025}}</ref>
+The attack intensified [[Indo-Pakistani wars and conflicts|tensions between India and Pakistan]] as India accused Pakistan of supporting [[Pakistan and state-sponsored terrorism|cross-border terrorism]] and suspended the [[Indus Waters Treaty]], expelled Pakistani diplomats and closed borders. Pakistan rejected these claims and retaliated by suspending the [[Simla Agreement]], restricting trade, and closing airspace. A standoff between both countries led to a [[2025 India–Pakistan conflict|military conflict]] on 7 May 2025 when India launched airstrikes on Pakistani targets.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Mashal |first1=Mujib |last2=Kumar |first2=Hari |last3=Masood |first3=Salman |date=6 May 2025 |title=India Strikes Pakistan but Is Said to Have Lost Aircraft |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/06/world/asia/india-pakistan-attacks.html |access-date=10 May 2025 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}</ref>
-== Attack ==
+== Background ==
-On 22 April 2025 at 14:50, at least four militants entered the [[Baisaran Valley]] meadow, which is about 7 kilometers from the [[Pahalgam]] town. This area is surrounded by dense pine forests on all sides, the site is known as "mini Switzerland" and is a popular spot for picnicking. The militants carried [[M4 carbine]]s and [[AK-47]]s and wore military-style uniforms.<ref name="IE weapons" /><ref name="IE no security">Manoj Dattatreya More, [https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/pune/saw-no-security-personnel-from-baisaran-to-pahalgam-during-j-k-visit-pimpri-tourists-9961774/ Saw no security personnel from Baisaran to Pahalgam during J-K visit: Pimpri tourists], The Indian Express, 23 April 2025.</ref><ref name="jaz">{{Cite web |title=Gunmen kill at least 26 in Indian-administered Kashmir: Police |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/4/22/gunmen-open-fire-on-tourists-in-indian-administered-kashmir |access-date=22 April 2025 |website=Al Jazeera}}</ref><ref name="IE 7 terrorists" /><ref name="NDTV">{{Cite web |date=23 April 2025 |title=Kashmir Attack During JD Vance's Visit Mirrors Bill Clinton's 2000 India Trip |url=https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/pahalgam-kashmir-attack-during-jd-vances-visit-mirrors-bill-clintons-2000-india-trip-8233247 |website=NDTV}}</ref>
+{{Further|Kashmir conflict|Insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir|Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019}}The [[Jammu and Kashmir insurgency]] began in the late 1980s, as part of the wider Kashmir conflict. Pakistan's role in launching the insurgency{{sfnp|Sirrs|2016|loc=(p. 157) "Under the proposed deal, ISI would provide money, trainers and camps in return for [Jamaat-e-Islami] recruits, intelligence assets, propaganda, fundraising and other political support."; (p. 158) "Yet these differences were set aside, and in 1986 an agreement was finally reached between ISI and the JKLF."}} as well as in turning it into an Islamist militancy{{sfnp|Kiessling|2016|loc=p. 193: "[JKLF] was replaced by the Hizbul Mujahideen (Party of the Holy Fighters), created in Pakistan in 1989. This became the militant arm of the Pakistani Jamaat-e-Islami (JI, Islamic Party), which vehemently demanded the annexation of Kashmir to Pakistan."}} are well-documented in the scholarly literature.{{sfnp|Fair|2014|loc=Chapter 1: "Because Pakistan relies upon a menagerie of Islamist militant groups—for example, Afghan Taliban, the Haqqani Network, Lashkar-e-Taiba (also known as Jamaat-ud-Dawa and the Filah-i-Insaniat Foundation), and Jaish-e-Mohammad—as instruments of foreign policy toward India and Afghanistan, the United States has periodically considered declaring Pakistan to be a state sponsor of terrorism."}}{{sfnp|Snedden|2013|loc=p. 195: "Brian Cloughley, an expert on the Pakistan Army, is unequivocal: 'Pakistan, never loath to capitalise on India's discomfort or difficulties, took the opportunity, through the army, to foster various groupings that were intent on creating mayhem on the Indian side of the Line of Control. Their efforts grew, year by year, and there was no doubt they had official backing from within Pakistan'."}} The rise of militancy in the region has led to an [[Exodus of Kashmiri Hindus|exodus]] of [[Kashmiri Hindus]].<ref name="HRW99">{{cite web |date=16 July 1999 |title=Rights Abuses Behind Kashmir Fighting – Human Rights Watch |url=http://hrw.org/english/docs/1999/07/16/india954.htm |work=hrw.org}}</ref>
-The attackers had asked for names and religions of the victims before shooting them.<ref name="Hindu kept firing">Vijaita Singh, [https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/terrorists-kept-firing-for-25-30-minutes-recalls-pahalgam-eyewitness/article69483296.ece Terrorists kept firing for 25–30 minutes, recalls Pahalgam eyewitness], The Hindu, 23 April 2025.</ref> Some said they were asked to recite the ''[[Six Kalimas|kalima]]''.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Bukhari |first=Fayaz |date=23 April 2025 |title=Militants in Indian Kashmir segregate men from women and children before opening fire |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/militants-indian-kashmir-segregate-men-women-children-before-opening-fire-2025-04-23/ |access-date=24 April 2025 |work=Reuters}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Arora |first=Mansi |date=22 April 2025 |title='Asked to recite Islamic verse': Tourists recall horror after Pahalgam terror attack |url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/stripped-to-check-for-circumcision-asked-to-recite-islamic-verse-tourists-recall-horror-after-jk-terror-attack-8991109 |website=Wion }}</ref><ref>PTI, [https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/terrorists-cursed-modi-asked-my-father-to-recite-islamic-verse-before-shooting-him-daughter/article69480148.ece Terrorists cursed Modi, asked my father to recite Islamic verse before shooting him: Daughter], The Hindu, 23 April 2025.</ref> A local Kashmiri Shia Muslim, Syed Adil Hussain Shah, reportedly tried to protect the tourists and stop the attack by wrestling the rifle out of one of the attackers hands but was killed in the effort.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-pony-operator-dies-protecting-tourists-125042300844_1.html|title=Pahalgam pony operator dies protecting tourist, tackles armed terrorist}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/pahalgam-terror-attack-syed-adil-hussain-shah-tried-to-snatch-terrorists-rifle-killed-2713505-2025-04-23|title=Syed Adil Hussain: Hero Pahalgam pony ride operator who tried to stop terrorist|date=23 April 2025|website=India Today}}</ref> Eyewitness videos showed scenes of panic and injured victims pleading for help. One woman was seen screaming for assistance for her husband, while others were seen lying motionless in the meadow. Emergency services arrived at the scene shortly after news of the attack reached district headquarters. Two critically injured victims were taken to Anantnag District Hospital around 16:30, while others were transported to nearby medical centres. Some were airlifted by helicopter to a [[military hospital]] in [[Srinagar]] for further treatment.<ref name="thewire20250422">{{Cite web |title=J&K: Tourist Killed, Several Hurt in Attack on Pahalgam Health Resort |url=https://thewire.in/security/south-kashmir-pahalgam-militant-attack-killed-tourist |access-date=22 April 2025 |website=The Wire }}</ref>
+In 2019, the Indian government [[revocation of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir|revoked the special status]] previously granted to Jammu and Kashmir, and extended the [[Constitution of India]] to the state in full, enabling non-Kashmiris to purchase property and settle down in Kashmir.<ref name="Hindu domicile">{{cite news |title=83,742 domicile certificates granted to non-locals in 2 years: J&K govt. |newspaper=The Hindu |date=10 April 2025 |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/jammu-and-kashmir/83742-domicile-certificates-granted-to-non-locals-in-2-years-jk-govt/article69432373.ece |quote=According to data shared with the Rajya Sabha in 2021, as many as 185 non-locals bought land in J&K since the Centre abrogated provisions of Article 370 in 2019}}</ref> Also related is the issuance of [[Domicile (Jammu and Kashmir)|domicile status]] to non-Kashmiris, qualifying them for jobs and college seats.<ref>{{citation |title=12.5 lakh domicile certificates issued so far in J&K: Govt. |newspaper=The Hindu |date=2 September 2020 |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/125-lakh-domicile-certificates-issued-so-far-in-jk-govt/article32500068.ece |quote=[A government spokesman] said 11,398 West Pakistan refugees, 415 Valmiki community members, 10 Gorkha community members and 12,340 registered migrants have been issued the certificates so far. }}</ref> Fears have been expressed that these changes would result in a change in [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)#Demographics|demographics]] in Kashmir, with non-locals [[Settler|settling]] in the area.<ref>{{cite news |first=Mirza Saaib |last=Beg |title=J&K's New Domicile Order: Disenfranchising Kashmiris, One Step at a Time |newspaper=The Wire (Opinion) |date=30 May 2020 |url=https://thewire.in/rights/kashmir-domicile-law |quote=All these initiatives have sparked fears of demographic change, militarised settlements, dispossession and alienation of land in Kashmir. }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://harvardlawreview.org/print/vol-134/from-domicile-to-dominion-indias-settler-colonial-agenda-in-kashmir/ |title=From Domicile to Dominion: India's Settler Colonial Agenda in Kashmir |date=May 2021 |work=[[Harvard Law Review]]}}</ref><ref>Luv Puri, [https://www.telegraphindia.com/opinion/brutal-interruption-the-blood-stains-get-deeper-in-kashmir/cid/1836892 Brutal interruption], The Telegraph (India), 2 November 2021. {{ProQuest|2590738085}} "After the changes brought about by the abrogation of Article 370, mass-scale hysteria about the possibility of a demographic change has swept the Valley."</ref> Some Kashmiris, along with numerous other commentators, have described these policies as "[[settler colonialism]]".<ref>Sources:
+*{{harvnb|Mushtaq|Mudasir|2021}}
+*{{cite web |url=https://harvardlawreview.org/print/vol-134/from-domicile-to-dominion-indias-settler-colonial-agenda-in-kashmir/ |title=From Domicile to Dominion: India's Settler Colonial Agenda in Kashmir |date=May 2021 |work=[[Harvard Law Review]]}}
+*{{harvnb|Kanjwal|2019}}
+*{{harvnb|Udupa|2023}}
+*{{Cite web |date=5 June 2023 |title=How Hindu Nationalists Became Best Friends With Israel |url=https://jacobin.com/2023/06/hostile-homelands-india-israel-colonialism-palestine-kashmir |website=jacobin.com |language=en-US}}
+*{{harvnb|Tahir|2025}}
+*{{Cite web |date=5 August 2023 |title=India's Kashmir clampdown continues four years after Article 370 abrogated |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/8/5/indias-kashmir-clampdown-continues-four-years-after-article-370-abrogated |website=Al Jazeera |language=en}}
+*{{harvnb|Zia|2021}}
+</ref>
-Locals also rescued and offered shelter to victims. Members of local pony-handlers association rescued around 11 injured tourists on [[ponies]] and improvised stretchers.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Zargar |first1=Anees |title='I only thought of the injured': Ponywalla rushes to save lives after Pahalgam carnage |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/news/i-only-thought-of-injured-ponywalla-rushes-to-save-lives-after-pahalgam-carnage |work=[[The News Minute]] |date=23 April 2025 }}</ref> Witnesses stated that most of the victims were male, with one assailant allegedly telling a woman that she was being spared so she could "narrate the horrors" to Prime Minister [[Narendra Modi]]. Several victims were shot at close range, and video footage from the scene showed bloodied individuals lying on the ground and others pleading for help.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 April 2025 |title='Go tell this to Modi', Pahalgam attacker told me after killing my husband: Karnataka survivor – 'Go tell this to Modi', Pahalgam attacker told me after killing my husband: Karnataka survivor BusinessToday |url=https://www.businesstoday.in/india/story/go-tell-this-to-modi-pahalgam-attacker-told-me-after-killing-my-husband-karnataka-survivor-473142-2025-04-22 |website=Business Today }}</ref>
+After the revocation, a new militant group called [[The Resistance Front]] (TRF) sprang up in Kashmir, believed to have been sponsored by Pakistan-based [[Lashkar-e-Taiba]],<ref name="trackingterrorism.org">{{Cite web |title=The Resistance Front (TRF) - Jammu & Kashmir |url=https://trackingterrorism.org/group/resistance-front-trf/ |url-access=subscription |website=Terrorism Research & Analysis Consortium |language=en-US |quote=In 2020, it is believed that Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) established The Resistance Front (TRF) as a proxy organization. The group was one of five organizations to appear in Jammu and Kashmir that year ...}}</ref><ref name="satp">{{Cite web |title=The Resistance Front (TRF) Terrorist Group, Jammu & Kashmir |url=https://satp.org/terrorist-profile/india-jammukashmir/the-resistance-front-trf |access-date=11 May 2025 |website=[[Ajai Sahni|South Asia Terrorism Portal]]}}</ref><ref name="FP TRF">{{Cite web |date=14 September 2024 |title=What is The Resistance Front, responsible for killing of 3 security officers in J&K? |url=https://www.firstpost.com/explainers/anantnag-encounter-what-is-the-resistance-front-responsible-for-killing-of-3-security-officers-in-jk-13124322.html |work=[[Firstpost]]}}</ref> a UN designated [[terrorism|terrorist group]].<ref>{{cite web |date=30 January 2016 |title=Lashkar-e-Taiba |url=https://web.stanford.edu/group/mappingmilitants/cgi-bin/groups/view/79#designated |website=[[Stanford University]]}}</ref> TRF has also been designated as terrorist organisation in India.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Joy |first=Shemin |date=6 January 2023 |title=Centre bans LeT's proxy outfit 'The Resistance Front' |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/centre-bans-lets-proxy-outfit-the-resistance-front-1178338.html |work=[[Deccan Herald]]}}</ref> The TRF was formed from cadres of LeT and [[Hizbul Mujahideen]] in Kashmir,<ref name="trackingterrorism.org"/><ref name="satp"/><ref name="ORF TRF">{{cite web |date=15 December 2021 |title=Positioning The Resistance Front (TRF) in Kashmir's militancy landscape |url=https://www.orfonline.org/expert-speak/positioning-the-resistance-front-trf-in-kashmirs-militancy-landscape |work=[[Observer Research Foundation]] }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Mir |first=Shakir |date=26 June 2021 |title=Why Militants Are Turning to Srinagar – Again |url=https://thewire.in/security/kashmir-srinagar-militants-trf-let |website=[[The Wire (India)|The Wire]] }}</ref> TRF has carried out attacks on Hindu minority communities.<ref name="ORF TRF" /><ref name="Quint TRF" />
-The attackers are believed to have used body cameras to record the assault, a method commonly linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba propaganda. A joint [[cordon and search]] operation was launched by the [[Indian Army|Army]], [[Paramilitary forces of India|paramilitary forces]], and [[Jammu and Kashmir Police|J&K police]]. A temporary lockdown was imposed in Pahalgam, and helicopters were deployed to trace the militants, who reportedly fled to the upper reaches of the [[Pir Panjal Range|Pir Panjal range]]. Investigations into how the group infiltrated Kashmir are ongoing.<ref>{{Cite news |date=22 April 2025 |title=Pahalgam terror attack LIVE: PM Modi to return to India cutting short Saudi Arabia visit; Navy Officer among 26 killed |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/pahalgam-jammu-kashmir-terror-attack-tourists-dead-injured-april-22-2025/article69478557.ece |work=The Hindu |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref name="IE 7 terrorists" />
+<!-- In recent years, militants often backed by Pakistan-based jihadist groups have struck at Hindu pilgrims and non-local civilians in the Kashmir region.<ref name="Newsweek 22 Apr"/> In 2022, a bus carrying devotees to the Hindu shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi in Katra, Jammu was bombed by assailants killing 4 pilgrims.<ref name="Newsweek 22 Apr"/> The [[2024 Reasi attack]] was the most recent terrorist attack in Indian [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)|Jammu and
-== Casualties ==
-At least 28 civilians were killed in the attack, including 25 Indian tourists from various parts of India, two locals from Jammu and Kashmir and two foreign tourists from Nepal and the United Arab Emirates.<ref name="liveMint1">{{cite news |last1=Hari |first1=Ravi |title='Brutal crime has no justification': Vladimir Putin on terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam|url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/brutal-crime-has-no-justification-vladimir-putin-on-terror-attack-in-jammu-and-kashmirs-pahalgam-11745341006877.html |work=[[Mint (newspaper)]] |publisher=[[HT Media]] |date=22 April 2025 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=22 April 2025 |title=People wail for help as loved ones lie in pools of blood: Pahalgan after attack on tourists |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/my-husband-was-shot-in-head-pahalgam-sees-panic-and-chaos-after-terrorists-target-tourists/articleshow/120519335.cms |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=22 April 2025 |title=India: Gunmen kill at least 20 tourists in Kashmir |url=https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2025/04/22/india-gunmen-kill-at-least-20-tourists-in-kashmir_6740515_4.html |work=Le Monde }}</ref>
-At least 20 others were injured.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 April 2025 |title=Many feared dead in gun attack on tourists in Indian-controlled Kashmir |url=https://apnews.com/article/kashmir-tourist-attack-dc7067a18899d9e7ff7726d4e05982c3 |website=AP News }}</ref><ref name="ndtv20250422">{{Cite web |title=Kashmir Terror Attack Updates: 28 Killed In J&K's Worst Terror Attack In Recent Times, Say Sources |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-terrorist-attack-live-updates-pahalgam-anantnag-tourists-prime-minister-narendra-modi-amit-shah-terrorists-news-8227401|access-date=22 April 2025 |website=www.ndtv.com }}</ref> The dead included those from [[Arunachal Pradesh]], [[Karnataka]], [[Kerala]], [[Maharashtra]], [[Odisha]], [[Gujarat]], [[Haryana]], [[West Bengal]] and [[Uttar Pradesh]], as well as injured from Gujarat, [[Tamil Nadu]] and Maharashtra.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2025/Apr/23/recently-married-iaf-officer-from-arunachal-among-26-killed-in-pahalgam-terror-attack|title=Recently married IAF officer from Arunachal among 26 killed in Pahalgam terror attack|newspaper=The New Indian Express|date=2025-04-23|access-date=2025-04-24}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=22 April 2025 |title=Kerala man among victims of Pahalgam terror attack |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kerala-man-killed-in-terror-attack-pahalgam-1.10529818 |website=English.Mathrubhumi }}</ref><ref name="ndtv">{{Cite web |title=Pahalgam Terror Attack: How Trump, Putin, Meloni, Other World Leaders Reacted To Kashmir Killings |url=https://zeenews.india.com/india/pahalgam-terror-attack-how-trump-putin-meloni-other-world-leaders-reacted-to-kashmir-killings-2889780.html |access-date=22 April 2025 |website=Zee News }}</ref><ref name="guardian" /> The casualties included a 26-year-old [[Indian Navy]] officer and an [[Intelligence Bureau (India)|Intelligence Bureau]] official.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Intelligence Bureau Officer Shot In Front Of Wife, Children In J&K Attack |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/intelligence-bureau-officer-manish-ranjan-shot-in-front-of-wife-kids-in-pahalgam-terror-attack-deaths-8230390 |access-date=22 April 2025 |website=www.ndtv.com }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=22 April 2025 |title=Indian Navy Officer among 26 killed in Pahalgam terror attack |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/india/navy-lieutenant-killed-pahalgam-attack-1.10530098 |website=English.Mathrubhumi }}</ref>
-== Responsibility ==
-The attack was claimed by [[The Resistance Front]], an affiliate of Pakistan-based [[Lashkar-e-Taiba]]<ref name="ndtv20250422" /> and [[Hizbul Mujahideen]]<ref name="jaz" /> blaming the settlement of over 85,000 non-Kashmiris that they claimed was driving a [[Domicile (Jammu and Kashmir)|demographic]] change.<ref name="guardian" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=22 April 2025 |title=At least 20 feared killed in militant attack on tourists in Indian Kashmir, security sources say |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2025/04/22/at-least-20-feared-killed-in-militant-attack-on-tourists-in-indian-kashmir-security-sources-say.html |website=CNBC }}</ref>
-== Domestic response ==
-Indian prime minister [[Narendra Modi]] cut short his visit to Saudi Arabia and said that those responsible would be brought to justice, emphasizing India's resolve to combat terrorism.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Mitra |first1=Esha |last2=Ahmad |first2=Mukhtar |last3=Iyer |first3=Aishwarya S |last4=Fox |first4=Kara |last5=Yeung |first5=Jessie |date=22 April 2025 |title=Dozens killed as gunmen massacre tourists in Kashmir beauty spot |url=https://www.cnn.com/2025/04/22/asia/gunmen-open-fire-jammu-kashmir-intl/index.html |website=CNN }}</ref> Union Home Minister [[Amit Shah]] travelled to [[Srinagar]] to assess the situation and coordinate the security response. Union minister for finance and corporate affairs [[Nirmala Sitharaman]] cut short her official visit to the United States and Peru. Security forces launched a manhunt to apprehend the perpetrators, and a helpline was established to assist affected tourists.<ref>{{Cite news |date=22 April 2025 |title=Pahalgam attack live updates: At least 12 tourists injured, multiple deaths feared |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pahalgam-attack-live-updates-jammu-and-kashmir-terrorists-operation-death-injury-latest-news-today-amit-shah-101745327477992.html|work=Hindustan Times}}</ref> Following the attack, an increase in the number of visitors leaving Jammu and Kashmir was recorded, prompting [[Air India]] to increase the number of flights to the region.<ref>{{Cite news |date=23 April 2025 |title=Tourists flee India-administered Kashmir after deadly attack |url=https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20250423-tourists-flee-india-administered-kashmir-after-deadly-attack |work=France 24}}</ref>
-On 23 April, the Indian Army gave limited clearance for the operation of [[HAL Dhruv]] for [[Counterterrorism|counter-terrorism]] operations. The fleet was otherwise grounded.<ref>{{Cite news |date=23 April 2025 |title=Army gives limited permission for grounded ALH Dhruv choppers for counter-terror ops in Srinagar, adjoining areas |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/army-gives-limited-permission-for-grounded-alh-dhruv-choppers-for-counter-terror-ops-in-srinagar-adjoining-areas/articleshow/120540863.cms?from=mdr |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref>
-Protests were held in many parts of Indian-administered Kashmir condemning the attack, including some in [[Jammu]] who blamed Pakistan.<ref name="guardian">{{Cite news |last1=Hassan |first1=Aakash |last2=Beaumont |first2=Peter |date=22 April 2025 |title=At least 28 tourists killed by suspected militants in Kashmir attack |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/apr/22/tourists-killed-by-suspected-militants-in-kashmir-attack |work=The Guardian |issn=0261-3077}}</ref>
-On the night of 23 April, Indian [[Foreign Secretary (India)|Foreign Secretary]] [[Vikram Misri]] held a special press briefing where he announced the temporary suspension of the [[Indus Waters Treaty]] with Pakistan with immediate effect until Pakistan ceases its support for cross-border terrorism. This decision was made after a meeting with the [[Cabinet Committee on Security]] (CCS). The secretary further announced the closure of integrated Check Post at [[Attari]]–[[Wagah]] Border<ref>{{Cite news |date=23 April 2025 |title=Pahalgam terror attack: Indus water treaty suspended, Attari border closed – the 5 big CCS decisions taken by India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/pahalgam-terror-attack-indus-water-treaty-suspended-attari-border-closed-the-5-big-ccs-decisions-taken-by-india/articleshow/120557480.cms |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=23 April 2025 |title=Pahalgam attack: India suspends Indus Water Treaty, closes Wagah-Attari border, cancels visas; Top decisions by govt |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/pahalgam-attack-india-suspends-indus-water-treaty-closes-wagah-attari-border-cancels-visas-top-decisions-by-govt/articleshow/120557303.cms?from=mdr |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref> and a ban on the travel of all Pakistani nationals to India under the [[South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation#SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme|SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme]], resulting in cancellation of all previously issued visas. Additionally, Pakistani military advisers at the [[High Commission of Pakistan, New Delhi|Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi]] were expelled, while their Indian counterparts in [[High Commission of India, Islamabad|Islamabad]] were withdrawn, and the staff strength of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad was reduced.<ref>{{Cite web |date=23 April 2025 |title=Indus Waters Treaty paused, no entry to Pakistanis: India responds to J&K attack |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/indus-water-treaty-suspended-attari-checkpost-shut-government-response-pahalgam-attack-2713599-2025-04-23 |website=India Today }}</ref> Pakistan warned India of a comprehensive retaliation in response to these actions.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.samaa.tv/index.php/2087332244-pakistan-to-respond-to-india-s-actions-comprehensively-dar|title=Pakistan to respond to India's actions comprehensively: Dar|date=24 April 2025|website=www.samaa.tv}}</ref>
-=== Investigation ===
-The [[National Investigation Agency]] initiated an investigation into the attack after visiting the site on 23 April.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NIA Probe: IG-Led Team Heads to Pahalgam After Deadly Terror Attack |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/jammu-and-kashmir/nia-team-led-by-ig-en-route-to-terror-hit-pahalgam-3505824 |access-date=23 April 2025 |website=Deccan Herald }}</ref><ref name="ndtv20250423">{{Cite web |title=26 Killed In Pahalgam Terror Attack, NIA Team On Site: What We Know So Far |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/26-killed-in-pahalgam-terror-attack-nia-team-on-site-what-we-know-so-far-jammu-and-kashmir-terror-attack-pm-modi-meeting-tourists-killed-8233177 |access-date=23 April 2025 |website=www.ndtv.com }}</ref>[[File:J&K police release collage of terrorists involved in Pahalgam attack.png|thumb|J&K police release collage of militants involved in Pahalgam attack]] Security agencies released sketches of three of the militants involved in attack and stated that all of them were linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba and at least two are believed to be foreigners.<ref>{{Cite web |agency=IANS |date=23 April 2025 |title=Security forces release sketches, photos of terrorists who carried out Pahalgam attack |url=https://www.thestatesman.com/india/security-forces-release-sketches-photos-of-terrorists-who-carried-out-pahalgam-attack-1503423841.html |website=The Statesman }}</ref><ref name="ndtv20250423" /> Intelligence agencies identified Saifullah Kasuri alias Khalid, a top LeT commander, as the mastermind of the massacre.<ref>{{Cite web |date=23 April 2025 |title=Top Lashkar commander planned Pahalgam carnage that left 26 dead: Sources |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/pahalgam-jammu-kashmir-terror-attack-pm-modi-security-meeting-lashkar-trf-deaths-eyewitness-amit-shah-rahul-gandhi-2713170-2025-04-23 |website=India Today }}</ref>
-The [[Jammu and Kashmir Police|Jammu and Kashmir police]] have released sketches of three individuals believed to be involved in the attack.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Killers Of Pahalgam: Sketches Of 3 Terrorists Behind Attack Revealed |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/sketches-of-2-terrorists-behind-pahalgam-attack-released-by-agencies-8233597 |access-date=23 April 2025 |website=www.ndtv.com }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=23 April 2025 |title=Sketches of terrorists who killed 26 Pahalgam tourists released |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/pahalgam-terror-attack-sketches-of-terrorists-released-security-agencies-2713282-2025-04-23 |website=India Today }}</ref> The sketches were created based on eyewitness testimonies.<ref>{{Cite news |date=23 April 2025 |title=Pahalgam terror attack: Sketches of three suspected terrorists released by security agencies |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/pahalgam-terror-attack-sketches-of-three-suspected-terrorists-released-by-security-agencies/articleshow/120542235.cms |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> The suspects have been identified as Asif Fauji, Suleman Shah, and Abu Talha.<ref>{{Cite web |title=J&K Police releases sketches of 3 terrorists linked to Pahalgam attack that killed 26 |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/jk-police-release-sketches-of-3-terrorist-linked-in-pahalgam-attack-that-killed-26-see-pic-11745391308344.html |website=livemint}}</ref> Additionally, these individuals are known by their code names—Moosa, Yunus, and Asif. Authorities have linked them to the previous militancy-related incidents in the [[Poonch District, India|Poonch]] region.
-The attack drew immediate widespread condemnation from political leaders and civil society. Chief Minister [[Omar Abdullah]] described the incident as "much larger than anything we've seen directed at civilians in recent years." President [[Droupadi Murmu]] expressed her condolences to the families of the victims and called it a "dastardly and inhuman act."<ref>{{Cite news |date=22 April 2025 |title=Attack on tourists in J&K: 26 killed, including foreigners, locals & official |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/gunshots-heard-in-pahalgam-tourist-resort-in-jks-anantnag-district/articleshow/120515935.cms |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the act of violence and assured that those responsible for the attack would be brought to justice emphasizing the nation's strong resolve to combat terrorism.<ref>{{cite web |title=Prime Minister strongly condemns the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2123552 |website=pib.gov.in |date=22 April 2025}}</ref> and Defence Minister [[Rajnath Singh]] labeled it an "act of cowardice."<ref name="ndtv20250422" /> Opposition Congress MP [[Priyanka Gandhi]] called it a "crime against humanity." The [[Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha]] [[Rahul Gandhi]] described the attack as "horrific" and emphasised support for the victims, while also criticising the BJP. As did the PDP.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/4/23/act-of-war-what-happened-in-kashmir-attack-that-killed-26-tourists | title='Act of war': What happened in Kashmir attack that killed 26 tourists? | website=Al Jazeera | date=23 April 2025 }}</ref>
-== International reactions ==
-; Countries
-* {{Flag|Afghanistan}}: The Foreign Ministry of the [[Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan]] issued a statement that "categorically condemns" the attack, offered condolences to the victims, and said that "such incidents undermine efforts to ensure regional security and stability".<ref>{{Cite web |title=Taliban Condemns Pahalgam Attack: 'Such Incidents Undermine Efforts To Ensure Regional Security' |url=https://www.news18.com/world/taliban-condemns-pahalgam-attack-such-incidents-undermine-efforts-to-ensure-regional-security-ws-l-9310699.html |access-date=23 April 2025 |website=News18 }}</ref><ref name="deccanherald20250423" />
-* {{Flag|Armenia}}: Prime Minister [[Nikol Pashinyan]] offered his condolences.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Armenian PM offers condolences over deadly terrorist attack in Kashmir |url=https://en.armradio.am/2025/04/23/armenian-pm-offers-condolences-over-deadly-terrorist-attack-in-kashmir/ |access-date=23 April 2025 |website=Public Radio of Armenia }}</ref>
-* {{Flag|Australia}}: Prime Minister [[Anthony Albanese]] condemned the attack as an "act of senseless violence" and called for the perpetrators to be held accountable.<ref>{{Cite web |title="Those responsible must be held to account": Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Pahalgam terror attack |url=https://www.aninews.in/news/world/asia/those-responsible-must-be-held-to-account-australia-prime-minister-anthony-albanese-on-pahalgam-terror-attack20250423202433/ |access-date=23 April 2025 |website=ANI News }}</ref>
-* {{Flag|Bangladesh}}: Interim Government Chief Adviser [[Muhammad Yunus]] expressed his condolences for the victims and reaffirmed Bangladesh's stance against terrorism.<ref>{{Cite news |date=23 April 2025 |title=Chief adviser condemns Kashmir attack |url=https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/chief-adviser-condemns-kashmir-attack-3878306 |work=[[The Daily Star (Bangladesh)|The Daily Star]]}}</ref><!--Add Belgium-->
-* {{Flag|Bhutan}}: Bhutan Prime Minister [[Tshering Tobgay]] condemned the attack as a "horrific terrorist attack" and conveyed his condolences.<ref>{{Cite web |title=India's neighboors condemn Pahalgm attack {{!}} Latest India News - Hindustan Times |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/indias-neighbours-condemn-pahalgam-attack-101745407794403.html |access-date=25 April 2025 |website=www.hindustantimes.com}}</ref>
-* {{Flag|Canada}}: Canadian Prime Minister [[Mark Carney]] condemned the attack as "a senseless and shocking act of violence," and offered his condolences.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Canadian PM, Oppn leader condemn terror attack on civilians in Kashmir |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/canadian-pm-oppn-leader-condemn-terror-attack-on-civilians-in-kashmir-101745431401801.html |access-date=24 April 2025 |website=hindustantimes.com}}</ref>
-* {{Flag|China}}: The Foreign Ministry offered its "sincere sympathies" to the families of the victims. Additionally, Chinese Ambassador to India [[Xu Feihong]] condemned the attack on social media.<ref>{{Cite web |title=China Condemns Pahalgam Attack That Killed 26, Offers "Sincere Sympathies" |url=https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/china-condems-pahalgam-attack-that-killed-26-offers-sincere-sympathies-8234690 |access-date=23 April 2025 |website=NDTV }}</ref>
-* {{Flag|Cyprus}}: The [[Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Cyprus)|Cypriot Ministry of Foreign Affairs]] expressed its condolences. They condemned the attack by stating "Cyprus unequivocally condemns the heinous Pahalgam terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir. We express our full solidarity to the Government and the people of India. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims and all those injured."<ref name="economictimes20250423">{{Cite news |date=2025-04-23 |title=Condolences pour in from world leaders as India mourns Pahalgam terror attack |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/condolences-pour-in-from-world-leaders-as-india-mourns-pahalgam-terror-attack/articleshow/120537383.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2025-04-24 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-04-23 |title=Cyprus "unequivocally Condemns" The Terrorist Attack That Left At Least 27 Dead In Jammu And Kashmir |url=https://greekcitytimes.com/2025/04/23/cyprus-unequivocally-condemns/ |access-date=2025-04-24 |language=en-GB}}</ref>
-* {{Flag|Denmark}}: Danes Prime Minister [[Mette Frederiksen]] expressed its condolences. They condemned the attack by stating "Terrible news from Pahalgam. Denmark stands with India and strongly condemns all acts of terrorism. Our condolences to the victims of the attack and their families and loved ones."<ref>{{Cite web |title="Barbaric": From France, Italy To China- World Leaders Condemn J&K Attack |url=https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-world-leaders-condemn-j-k-attack-from-us-france-italy-russia-china-8234952 |access-date=2025-04-24 |website=NDTV |language=en}}</ref>
-* {{Flag|Estonia}}: Estonian Minister of Foreign Affairs [[Margus Tsahkna]] offered his condolences and condemned the attack by stating "I strongly condemn the terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. Our thoughts are with the victims & their loved ones. Estonia stands against all forms of terrorism & violence against innocent civilians."<ref name="economictimes20250423" />
-* {{Flag|France}}: President [[Emmanuel Macron]] condemned the attack and the ambassador of France to India stated that France would stand in solidarity with India in the fight against terrorism.<ref name="timesofindia20250423">{{Cite web |date=23 April 2025 |title=Jammu and Kashmir Pahalgam Terror Attack LIVE updates: Nirmala Sitharaman cuts short US, Peru visit to return to India after Pahalgam terror attack |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/jammu-and-kashmir-terror-attack-pahalgam-security-forces-terrorists-killed-tourist-injured-search-operation-police-pm-modi-hm-amit-shah-omar-abdullah/liveblog/120519770.cms |access-date=23 April 2025 |website=The Times of India}}</ref><ref name="hindustantimes20250423">{{cite news |date=23 April 2025 |title=From Trump to Meloni, how world leaders reacted to 'heinous' Pahalgam terror attack |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/deeply-disturbing-how-world-leaders-trump-putin-reacted-heinous-pahalgam-terror-attack-101745365201307.html |access-date=23 April 2025 |work=Hindustan Times}}</ref>
-* {{Flag|Germany}}: Chancellor [[Olaf Scholz]] strongly condemned the attack and offered his condolences to the victims.<ref name="timesofindia20250423" />
-* {{Flag|Guyana}}: Prime Minister [[Irfaan Ali]] condemned the attack as a “heinous act of violence” and extended condolences to the victims' families. He emphasized the need for peace and expressed confidence that the perpetrators would be brought to justice.<ref>{{Cite news |date=23 April 2025 |title=J&K Pahalgam terror attack: Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, Keir Starmer and other world leaders condemn 'heinous' ambush |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/jk-pahalgam-terror-attack-donald-trump-vladimir-putin-keir-starmer-and-other-world-leaders-react/articleshow/120535208.cms |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>
-* {{Flag|Indonesia}}: [[Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Indonesia)|Indonesian Foreign Ministry]] expressed “strongest condemnations” for the attack on civilians, while also tweeted condolences to the victims and injured of the attacks.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Salsabila |first=Farah |date=23 April 2025 |title=Indonesia Strongly Condemns Deadly Attack on Tourists in Pahalgam, Kashmir |url=https://en.minanews.net/indonesia-strongly-condemns-deadly-attack-on-tourists-in-pahalgam-kashmir/ |website=MINA News Agency }}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |number=1914935477578428709 |user=Kemlu_RI |title=Indonesia strongly condemns the heinous terrorist attack against civilians in Pahalgam. Such heinous crime is unjustifiable regardless of their motivations, whenever, wherever, and by whomsoever committed. #IndonesianWay}}</ref>
-* {{Flag|Iran}}: The [[Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Iran)|Foreign Ministry]] issued a statement calling the attack a "heinous terrorist crime" that "contradicts all human rights norms."<ref>{{Cite web |author=Danish Manzoor Bhat |date=22 April 2025 |title=Kashmir massacre: Trump, Putin, Iran, Israel condemn Hindu tourist attack |url=https://www.newsweek.com/kashmir-massacre-trump-putin-iran-israel-condemn-jihadist-attack-hindu-tourists-2062760 |website=Newsweek }}</ref> The [[Government of Iran]] extended condolences to the people and the [[Government of India]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=How World Reacted To Terror Attack In Kashmir That Left 26 Dead |url=https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/how-the-world-reacted-to-the-terror-attack-in-kashmir-that-left-26-dead-8230595 |access-date=23 April 2025 |website=NDTV }}</ref>
-* {{Flag|Israel}}: Foreign Minister [[Gideon Sa'ar]] and Prime Minister [[Benjamin Netanyahu]] condemned the attack and extended condolences to the victims and their families.<ref>{{Cite news |date=23 April 2025 |title=Israel stands with India in its fight against terrorism: Netanyahu after terror attack in Pahalgam |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/israel-stands-with-india-in-its-fight-against-terrorism-netanyahu-after-terror-attack-in-pahalgam/articleshow/120538158.cms?from=mdr |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref> Ambassador of Israel to India [[Reuven Azar]] also issued condolences and stated "our support is for the security forces in their struggle against terror".<ref>{{cite web |date=22 April 2025 |title=Appalled Israeli envoy Reuven Azar on Pahalgam terror attack |url=https://www.theweek.in/wire-updates/national/2025/04/22/del140-israel-envoy-jk-terror.html |agency=PTI |newspaper=The Week}}</ref>
-* {{Flag|Italy}}: Prime Minister [[Giorgia Meloni]] expressed sorrow over the attack, conveying condolences via social media. She stated that Italy sends its sympathies to the affected families, the injured, the Indian government, and the people of India.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Hari |first=Ravi |date=23 April 2025 |title=Italy PM Giorgia Meloni expresses solidarity with India after horrific Pahalgam terror attack claims 26 lives |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/italy-pm-giorgia-meloni-expresses-solidarity-with-india-after-horrific-pahalgam-terror-attack-claims-26-lives-11745346524671.html |access-date=23 April 2025 |work=[[Mint (newspaper)]]}}</ref>
-* {{Flag|Japan}}: Prime Minister [[Shigeru Ishiba]] offered his condolences and condemned the attack by stating "terrorism cannot be justified for any reason".<ref>{{Cite web |title=Message of condolences from Prime Minister Ishiba following the terrorist attack in Kashmir |url=https://japan.kantei.go.jp/103/statement/202504/23message.html |access-date=2025-04-24 |website=Prime Minister's Office of Japan |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=ANI |date=2025-04-23 |title=Japan PM Shigeru Ishiba condemns terrorist attack in Kashmir, says "terrorism cannot be justified for any reason" |url=https://theprint.in/world/japan-pm-shigeru-ishiba-condemns-terrorist-attack-in-kashmir-says-terrorism-cannot-be-justified-for-any-reason/2601240/ |access-date=2025-04-24 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}}</ref><!--Add Lithuania--><!--Add Latvia-->
-* {{Flag|Maldives}}: Maldivian President [[Mohamed Muizzu]] expressed his condolences and sympathy. He condemned the attack by stating that he was "deeply saddened and shocked by the horrific terror attack in Pahalgam, which has claimed innocent lives and left many injured".<ref>{{Cite web |title=Maldives president condemns India terror attack {{!}} Atoll Times |url=https://atolltimes.mv/post/news/12071 |access-date=2025-04-24 |website=atolltimes.mv |language=en}}</ref>
-* {{Flag|Nepal}}: Prime Minister [[K. P. Sharma Oli]] expressed solidarity with India.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Global Leaders Condemn Vile Pahalgam Terror Attack |url=https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3355714-global-leaders-condemn-vile-pahalgam-terror-attack |access-date=23 April 2025 |website=Devdiscourse }}</ref> The Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack as a "barbaric terrorist act" and extended condolences to the victims' families, reaffirming its position against terrorism in all forms.<ref>{{Cite web |date=23 April 2025 |title=Nepal condemns "barbaric terrorist attack" in J-K, affirms solidarity with India |url=https://kalingatv.com/world/nepal-condemns-barbaric-terrorist-attack-in-j-k-affirms-solidarity-with-india/ |access-date=23 April 2025 |website=KalingaTV |agency=ANI}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Nepal condemns terrorist attack in India-administered Kashmir |url=https://kathmandupost.com/national/2019/02/15/nepal-condemns-terrorist-attack-in-india-administered-kashmir |access-date=23 April 2025 |website=kathmandupost.com }}</ref><!--Add Norway (https://x.com/EspenBarthEide/status/1915053463047946406)-->
-* {{Flag|Pakistan}}: Pakistan's Foreign Ministry expressed condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.<ref name="deccanherald20250423">{{Cite web |title=Afghan Taliban Condemns Pahalgam Terror Attack, Says It Undermines Regional Security |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/afghan-taliban-govt-condemns-pahalgam-attack-says-such-incidents-undermine-regional-security-3506822 |access-date=2025-04-24 |website=Deccan Herald |language=en}}</ref> Defence Minister [[Khawaja Asif]] dismissed allegations of Pakistan's involvement in the attack and stated that "Pakistan has no connection with this. This is all home-grown, there are revolutions in different so-called states against India, not one, not two, but dozens, from Nagaland to Kashmir, in the south, in Chattisgarh, in Manipur. In all these places, there are revolutions against the Indian government."<ref>{{Cite web |title=Pakistans 1st reaction To Pahalgam terror attack, says nothing to do with It |url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/india/pakistans-1st-reaction-to-pahalgam-terror-attack-says-nothing-to-do-with-it/ |access-date=23 April 2025 |website=The Tribune }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=23 April 2025 |title=Pahalgam massacre: In first reaction, Pakistan defends terrorism in Kashmir, says 'locals acting against govt |url=https://www.firstpost.com/world/pahalgam-massacre-in-first-reaction-pakistan-defends-terrorism-in-kashmir-says-locals-acting-against-govt-13882315.html |access-date=23 April 2025 |website=Firstpost}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=23 April 2025 |title=Pahalgam attack: Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif blames India's "homegrown terrorists", denies involvement |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/pahalgam-attack-pakistani-defence-minister-khawaja-asif-blames-indias-homegrown-terrorists-denies-involvement/articleshow/120538847.cms?from=mdr |access-date=23 April 2025 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=23 April 2025 |title='Don't blame us': In first reaction, Pakistan defence minister Khawaja Asif denies role in Pahalgam terror attack; Watch |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/pakistan/dont-blame-pakistan-in-first-reaction-defence-minister-khawaja-asif-denies-role-in-pahalgam-terror-attack/articleshow/120538889.cms |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref><!--Add Panama--><!--Add Portugal (https://x.com/nestrangeiro_pt/status/1914943807910486088)-->
-* {{Flag|Russia}}: President [[Vladimir Putin]] condemned the attack in Kashmir, stating that "this brutal crime has no justification whatsoever." A subsequent statement from the [[Kremlin]] reaffirmed Russia's commitment to cooperate with India in combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, and extended sympathies to all those affected.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 April 2025 |title='Brutal crime': Putin condemns Pahalgam attack, reaffirms support to India in 'fighting terrorism' |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/brutal-crime-putin-condemns-jk-pahalgam-terror-attack-9959526/ |website=The Indian Express }}</ref>
-* {{Flag|Saudi Arabia}}: Crown Prince [[Mohammed bin Salman]] "strongly condemned" the attack. He reaffirmed Saudi Arabia's solidarity with India during this time of grief, emphasizing support for the country and its people.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Beri |first=Navya |date=23 April 2025 |title=India, Saudi Arabia joint statement 'strongly condemn' gruesome terror attack in Pahalgam |url=https://www.wionews.com/world/india-saudi-arabia-joint-statement-strongly-condemn-gruesome-terror-attack-in-pahalgam-8992651 |website=Wion }}</ref>
-* {{Flag|Singapore}}: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the country condemned the attack.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Terrorist Attacks in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025 |url=https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Newsroom/Press-Statements-Transcripts-and-Photos/2025/04/20250423-Terrorist-Attacks-in-PJK |access-date=23 April 2025 |website=www.mfa.gov.sg }}</ref><!--Add the PM's comment (https://x.com/LawrenceWongST/status/1915046075095986343)-->
-* {{Flag|South Africa}}: The South African government condemned the attack and offered condolences to victims.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://web.sabc.co.za/sabc/home/channelafrica/news/details?id=9a89ea87-1c52-42aa-ac78-88445b093915&title=SA%20government%20condemns%20attack%20on%20tourists%20in%20India|title=SA government condemns attack on tourists in India|date=23 April 2025|access-date=24 April 2025|website=SABC News Channel}}</ref>
-* {{Flag|Sri Lanka}}: The Foreign Ministry condemned the "heinous terrorist attack" and offered condolences. It also reiterated its commitment to regional peace and security.<ref>{{Cite news |date=23 April 2025 |title=Sri Lankan President condemns Pahalgam terror attack |url=https://www.newsonair.gov.in/sri-lankan-president-condemns-pahalgam-terror-attack/ |work=[[All India Radio]]}}</ref><!--Add Turkey-->
-* {{Flag|UAE}}: The [[Ministry of Foreign Affairs (United Arab Emirates)|Ministry of Foreign Affairs]] issued a statement strongly condemning the attack and expressed condolences to the government and people of India, as did the ambassador.<ref>{{Cite web |title=UAE Strongly Condemns Terrorist Attack on Tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir |url=https://www.mofa.gov.ae/en/MediaHub/News/2025/4/22/22-4-2025-uae-Kashmir |access-date=23 April 2025 |website=www.mofa.gov.ae }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=23 April 2025 |title=Saudi Arabia, UAE condemn Pahalgam terror attack; reaffirms support to India |url=https://www.moneycontrol.com/world/saudi-arabia-uae-condemn-pahalgam-terror-attack-reaffirms-support-to-india-article-13001783.html |work=[[Network18 Group|Moneycontrol]]}}</ref><!--Add Ukraine-->
-* {{Flag|United Kingdom}}: Prime Minister [[Keir Starmer]] offered his condolences.<ref name="hindustantimes20250423" />
-* {{Flag|United States}}: President [[Donald Trump]] described the incident as "deeply disturbing" and extended condolences to the victims. On social media, he reaffirmed support for India, stating that the U.S. stands with India against terrorism and expressing solidarity with Modi and the people of India. Vice President [[JD Vance]], who was on a visit to India with his wife [[Usha Vance]], also condemned the attack.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Yeung |first=Jessie |date=22 April 2025 |title=Dozens killed as gunmen massacre tourists in Kashmir beauty spot |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2025/04/22/asia/gunmen-open-fire-jammu-kashmir-intl/index.html |website=CNN }}</ref><ref name="hindustantimes20250423" />
-; Organizations
-* {{Flag|United Nations}}: Secretary General [[António Guterres]] condemned the attack and stressed that that attacks against civilians are unacceptable under any circumstances.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 April 2025 |title=Guterres condemns deadly attack in Jammu and Kashmir |url=https://news.un.org/en/story/2025/04/1162506 |website=UN News }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=23 April 2025 |title=Pahalgam massacre: UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres strongly condemns the terror attack |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/united-nations-secretary-general-guterres-strongly-condemns-pahalgam-attack/article69481107.ece |work=The Hindu |issn=0971-751X |agency=PTI}}</ref>
-== See also ==
-{{Portal bar|Crime|India|2020s}}
-* [[2000 Chittisinghpura massacre]]
-* [[2023 Rajouri attacks]]
-* [[2024 Reasi attack]]
-* [[List of terrorist incidents in India]]
-== References ==
-{{Reflist|30em}}
-{{DEFAULTSORT:Pahalgam attack, 2025}}
-[[Category:2025 mass shootings in Asia]]
-[[Category:2025 murders in India]]
-[[Category:2020s in Jammu and Kashmir]]
-[[Category:21st-century mass murder in India]]
-[[Category:April 2025 crimes in Asia]]
-[[Category:April 2025 in India]]
-[[Category:Islamic terrorist incidents in 2025]]
-[[Category:Massacres in 2025]]
-[[Category:Mass murder in 2025]]
-[[Category:Terrorist incidents in India in 2025]]
-[[Category:Ambushes of the Kashmir conflict]]
-[[Category:Attacks on tourists in Kashmir]]
-[[Category:Lashkar-e-Taiba attacks]]
-[[Category:Mass murder in Jammu and Kashmir]]
-[[Category:Massacres of Hindus in Kashmir]]
-[[Category:Mass shootings in Jammu and Kashmir]]
-[[Category:Terrorist incidents in Jammu and Kashmir]]
-[[Category:Anantnag district]]