Gunmen Kill 26 Tourists in Rare Terror Attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam Valley

In a shocking and rare terror attack on civilians, gunmen opened fire on tourists in the scenic Pahalgam Valley in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday, killing at least 26 people and injuring over a dozen more. The attack, one of the deadliest in years targeting civilians in the region, took place in the remote Baisaran Valley area of Anantnag district.

According to police officials, the majority of those killed were tourists. Among the deceased were a Nepali national and an Indian-origin individual working in the Middle East. Survivors described horrific scenes of chaos and trauma as gunmen allegedly fired from close range. Some victims were even attacked while seeking refuge inside tents, with one family accused of supporting the Indian government before the men were shot.

Victims, Eyewitness Accounts and Rescue

One survivor reported her husband was shot in the head, and others were hit in the legs and arms. Local resident Abdul Waheed said he and his pony association helped carry the wounded down the mountain valley on makeshift cots. “It was a scene of horror — women, children, and men screaming and crying everywhere,” Waheed told reporters.

Militant Group Claims Responsibility

A group calling itself The Resistance Front claimed responsibility on social media, citing anger at demographic changes due to increased tourism. Authorities have acknowledged the claim but are still investigating. The area remains under strict surveillance with ongoing search operations to capture the assailants.

Political and Global Reactions

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack and vowed justice: “Those behind this heinous act will not be spared.” The incident sparked protests across the region, with people holding candles and signs reading “Stop terrorism.” Home Affairs Minister Amit Shah visited the region and chaired a high-level security meeting, while the military has launched an extensive manhunt.

The United States, Russia, France, Italy, Iran, and Israel all issued statements condemning the attack. US President Donald Trump called Modi to offer support, while Vice President JD Vance, currently visiting India, also expressed his condolences online.

Kashmir’s Fragile Security

The Himalayan region of Kashmir has been the focal point of disputes between India and Pakistan for decades. The latest attack has renewed concerns over regional stability. Militants have historically targeted Indian forces, but attacks on civilians and tourists remain rare. Violence in the region surged in 2018, and though the Indian government claims militancy has decreased since 2019, this incident shows threats still remain.

Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs offered condolences but rejected any involvement. India, however, continues to allege that Pakistan provides safe haven to insurgent groups—a claim Islamabad denies.

FAQs about Kashmir Tourist Attack

1. Where did the attack take place?

The attack occurred in the Baisaran Valley of Pahalgam, a tourist hub in Anantnag district, Jammu and Kashmir.

2. Who were the victims?

At least 26 people were killed, including Indian tourists, a Nepali national, and an Indian-origin worker from the Middle East.

3. Who claimed responsibility?

A group known as The Resistance Front claimed the attack, although investigations are ongoing to verify this.

4. What has the Indian government done so far?

PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have condemned the attack. A high-level security meeting was held and search operations are underway.

5. Has there been international reaction?

Yes, leaders from the US, Russia, Iran, Israel, and others have condemned the violence and expressed solidarity with India.