Desk Report: A wave of global outrage and condolences has swept the world following the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam on Tuesday. Leaders including U.S. President Donald Trump, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed deep sorrow over the incident and extended their solidarity with India. However, even 12 hours after the attack, there has been no response from Pakistan, China, or Canada, raising serious diplomatic concerns.
The Attack
Terrorists affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba opened indiscriminate fire on tourists in the Baisaran area of Pahalgam, resulting in the tragic death of 28 people and leaving many others seriously injured. The attack was claimed by “The Resistance Front (TRF),” a Lashkar-linked outfit, via a social media post that included a picture of an injured tourist. Among the victims were two foreign nationals.
International Reactions
U.S. President Donald Trump spoke with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing deep sorrow and pledging full support to India in the fight against terrorism. Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned the attack as a “brutal crime.” Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and ambassadors from Japan, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Estonia, and France also denounced the attack as inhumane and unforgivable.
Pakistan’s Silence
According to Indian intelligence sources, the attackers were mostly foreign nationals, primarily from Pakistan. The assault was reportedly orchestrated by terror outfits operating from Pakistan, especially Lashkar-e-Taiba and its wing TRF, both allegedly under the protection of the Pakistani military. Recently, Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir had referred to Kashmir as the “jugular vein” of Pakistan, reflecting the ideological backing for such attacks.
Awaiting China’s Response
India-China relations have remained strained in recent years due to border tensions in Ladakh. While there have been signs of improvement following military-level talks, China’s continued support for Pakistan and its anti-India stance on Kashmir have complicated bilateral ties further.
Questions over Canada’s Silence
India-Canada relations have been tense in recent years due to rising Khalistani activities. Relations deteriorated sharply after former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of involvement in the death of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Despite a change in leadership, Canada has yet to respond to the Pahalgam terror attack, raising questions.
Prime Minister Modi’s Resolve
Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly condemned the attack, vowing that those responsible for the killing of innocent citizens will be brought to justice. The central government has placed all security agencies on high alert and ordered a nationwide manhunt to track down the perpetrators.