UK PM Keir Starmer condemns terror attack in India

On April 22, 2025, a tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, India, resulted in the loss of 26 lives, prompting strong international reactions. Following this incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a call from United Kingdom’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who condemned the attack and expressed condolences for the innocent victims. Starmer’s call highlighted the UK’s solidarity with India in the wake of this heinous act, emphasizing a shared commitment to combating terrorism. In addition to Keir Starmer's condemnation, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof also extended his condolences, labeling the assault a cowardly act. He emphasized the need to reject terrorism in all its forms during this sensitive time. Modi responded positively, thanking Schoof for the Netherlands' support and reaffirmed India’s determination to closely work with nations that stand against terrorism. In reaction to the Pahalgam attack, the Indian government announced several diplomatic measures. They included closing the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari and suspending the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) for Pakistani nationals, giving them a limited time to return to their country. Additionally, the number of diplomatic officers in the High Commissions of both countries was reduced. A more significant response involved the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, which had been an important agreement since 1960 governing water-sharing between India and Pakistan. Prime Minister Modi reassured the nation that those associated with the attack, as well as any conspirators, would face severe punishment. He articulated that it was essential to eliminate the remaining strongholds of terrorism, promising that the collective will of 140 crores Indians would be instrumental in dismantling the networks responsible for such violence. The government’s commitment to national security and international cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts has been a focal point of this response, which underlines the importance of global solidarity against terrorism during these challenging times.