Pakistan has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic killing of tourists in the Pahalgam area of Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, following a deadly attack in Anantnag district. The Foreign Office in Islamabad conveyed condolences to the victims’ families and extended wishes for the swift recovery of those injured.
In an official statement, Pakistan also strongly criticized the Indian media for making what it described as irresponsible and unfounded accusations against Pakistan in the immediate aftermath of the incident. The spokesperson emphasized that such knee-jerk reactions are politically motivated and reflect a recurring pattern of blaming Pakistan without any substantial evidence. According to the Foreign Office, this tactic is often used by India to divert attention from its own administrative and security shortcomings in the region.
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The deadly assault took place on Tuesday in the Baisaran meadows near Pahalgam, a well-known tourist destination. Reports indicate that four unidentified gunmen opened fire on a group of tourists at close range, resulting in the deaths of 26 individuals and leaving over 30 others seriously injured. Following the attack, Indian security forces launched a manhunt for the perpetrators, who managed to flee the scene.
Indian police have labeled the incident a terrorist attack, although no group has claimed responsibility as of yet. This event has raised significant concerns about the ongoing instability in Jammu and Kashmir, despite the area being heavily militarized.
Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, condemned the attack, describing it as one of the worst civilian-targeted assaults in recent years. He highlighted the troubling implications for regional security, questioning the effectiveness of the extensive military presence in preventing such tragedies.
While Indian media quickly pointed fingers at Pakistan, international analysts and human rights observers have urged caution against politicizing the event before a thorough investigation is conducted. Experts have pointed out that India’s narratives often overlook the internal dynamics of the region, including local discontent related to political marginalization and human rights violations.
Amid the international reactions, US President Donald Trump also condemned the attack. In a formal statement, he expressed his sorrow over the incident, offering prayers for the victims and their families. Trump extended his sympathies to those affected, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in the region.
This tragic event has intensified global concerns about the fragile security situation in Indian-occupied Kashmir, with critics accusing the Indian government of leveraging national security issues to suppress dissent and shift focus from domestic challenges.
