Deadly ambush in Indian-held Kashmir claims 26 tourist lives

April 21, 2025 – Lahore — At least 26 tourists were killed and several others injured in a brutal attack by suspected militants in the Pahalgam area of Indian-administered Kashmir, officials confirmed late Sunday night. The victims, primarily domestic tourists, were travelling in a convoy when they came under heavy gunfire.

India Today reports that, according to Indian security sources, the attack was orchestrated by a top commander of the banned militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba, though investigations are ongoing. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and horror as vehicles caught fire and rescue efforts were delayed due to continued firing from the attackers.

In a related development, Indian forces intercepted and killed two terrorists during an infiltration attempt across the Line of Control (LoC) in Uri, just hours after the Pahalgam attack. The army believes the infiltrators were attempting to cross over from Pakistan-administered territory.

Pakistan Expresses Concern

In a formal statement issued Monday morning, the Government of Pakistan expressed deep concern over the loss of innocent lives in the Pahalgam attack. “Pakistan condemns all forms of terrorism and violence. Civilian lives must be protected under all circumstances,” the statement read. Islamabad also urged for restraint and a full investigation into the incident.

Rising Tensions

The latest wave of violence comes at a time of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. Indian officials have blamed the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba for masterminding the Pahalgam carnage, naming a top Lashkar commander as the key planner behind the attack.

Security has been intensified across Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in tourist-heavy areas, as intelligence agencies warn of further threats. Meanwhile, India has summoned top security officials to New Delhi to assess the situation and consider a coordinated response.

Regional Fallout

The deadly attack threatens to derail ongoing backchannel talks between India and Pakistan aimed at reducing tensions in the Kashmir region. Analysts say such incidents risk sparking fresh conflict unless both sides take decisive steps to address the root causes of violence and militancy in the region.