World Leaders, Communities Condemn Kashmir Tourist Attack, 26 Dead

A terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, resulted in the deaths of at least 26 people, mostly tourists and Hindu pilgrims, and injured around 20 others. The assault was carried out by Pakistan-backed militants from The Resistance Front, an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba, who ambushed unarmed visitors at the Baisaran meadows before fleeing into the surrounding forests. The attack has drawn widespread condemnation both within India and internationally, including from U.S. President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Embassy of Ukraine, and the Sultanate of Oman, all expressing solidarity with India and calling for the perpetrators to be brought to justice. Arunachal Pradesh's governor also denounced the attack as a threat to India's unity, mourning the loss of local residents and reaffirming trust in authorities to respond. Local organizations, such as the Travel Agents Association of Kashmir, expressed anguish over the tragedy and urged support and medical care for the victims. The incident has highlighted concerns about security for tourists and the broader socio-economic impact on communities dependent on tourism in the region.