At least 27 killed in militant attack targeting tourists in Kashmir

On April 22, 2025, a tragic attack occurred in Jammu and Kashmir, India, as armed militants opened fire on a group of tourists in a popular area known for its scenic beauty. The incident took place in Baisaran Valley, near Pahalgam, around 3 PM local time during a peak tourism season. Eyewitnesses reported that four gunmen emerged from the nearby forest and targeted the tourists, resulting in at least 27 fatalities, including individuals from different nationalities. Many others were injured and transported to local hospitals for treatment, further escalating the local crisis surrounding security in the region. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from various national and international figures, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who canceled his engagements in Saudi Arabia to address the situation upon return. Modi stated that those behind this heinous act would be brought to justice and emphasized India’s unwavering resolve to combat terrorism. Indian Home Minister Amit Shah also underscored the need for a robust response and stated he would meet with security officials regarding the attack. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his condolences, firmly condemning the attack and offering support for India in the fight against terrorism. Tensions in Jammu and Kashmir have historically been high due to a long-standing conflict between India and Pakistan over territorial claims. The region has been plagued by violence since the late 1980s, with occasional attacks targeting civilians becoming alarmingly rare. The attack targeting tourists that occurred recently has raised concerns about the safety of visitors and the potential impacts on the tourism industry. The Kashmir region, renowned for attracting thousands of tourists each year, has now found itself in the spotlight for tragic reasons, which could have lasting ramifications on its future. As investigations unfold, the Indian government has initiated a large-scale anti-terror operation to search for those responsible for the assault. The group claiming responsibility for the attack, the Resistance Front, criticized high immigration rates and the issuance of domicile certificates to non-locals, accusing the Indian government of jeopardizing local demographics. This attack signifies a desperate move from militant groups aimed at disrupting stability and tourism, which could strain India's efforts for peace and normalization in a region historically characterized by conflict and resistance.