A deadly assault in the Indian-controlled region of Kashmir left over two dozen individuals dead on Tuesday. The attack, which authorities have labeled as an act of terror, was carried out by four gunmen who targeted a group of tourists in the popular resort town of Baisaran Valley in Pahalgam. The incident coincided with the visit of Vice President JD Vance to the region.
The assailants, identified as militants, opened fire at close range on the tourists around 3 p.m. local time, according to senior police officials. The attack resulted in at least 26 fatalities and injured over three dozen people, many of whom are in critical condition.
Omar Abdullah, the region’s top elected official, expressed his shock and condemnation of the attack on social media. He extended his sympathies to the families of the victims, describing the perpetrators as “inhuman” and “worthy of contempt.”
The death toll is still being assessed, according to Abdullah, who noted that the scale of the attack on civilians is unprecedented in recent years. Officials have recovered at least 24 bodies in the Baisaran meadows, approximately three miles from Pahalgam, a popular tourist destination. Two additional victims succumbed to their injuries while being transported for medical treatment.
The majority of the victims were Indian tourists, as per police sources who requested anonymity. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with no group having claimed responsibility for the attack. Security forces are actively searching for the attackers.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice in a social media post. He asserted that India’s resolve to combat terrorism is unshakeable and will only strengthen in the face of such heinous acts.
The region of Kashmir, a subject of territorial dispute between India and Pakistan, has witnessed a surge in targeted killings of Hindus, including immigrant workers from other Indian states, following the revocation of the region’s semi-autonomy by New Delhi in 2019. Despite the ongoing conflict, tourists continue to visit Baisaran Valley, often referred to as the “Switzerland of India,” due to its scenic beauty.
Following the mass killing, President Trump pledged his full support to India. He expressed his condolences and assured India of the United States’ solidarity in the fight against terrorism. Vice President Vance, who is currently visiting India, also extended his condolences and shared his admiration for the country and its people.