The Pahalgam terrorist attack occurred on April 22, 2025, in the Indian-administered territory of Jammu and Kashmir, specifically targeting Hindu tourists in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam. Here’s a summary of the incident:

*Attack Details*

– Five armed militants attacked male Hindu tourists, killing 26 and injuring over 20 others.
– The attackers wore military-style uniforms and carried M4 carbines and AK-47s.
– They asked victims for their names and religions before shooting them, with some being forced to recite the Islamic verse of kalima to segregate them by religion.

*Claim of Responsibility*

– The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist group, initially claimed responsibility for the attack.
– However, TRF later retracted their claim, citing a communications breach.

*Aftermath*

– The attack intensified tensions between India and Pakistan, leading to a diplomatic crisis.
– India accused Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism and suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, expelled Pakistani diplomats, and closed borders.
– Pakistan denied India’s accusations and retaliated by suspending the Simla Agreement, restricting trade, and closing airspace.

*Investigation*

– Indian authorities identified 14 active terrorists operating in Jammu and Kashmir, with three major terror outfits involved: Hizbul Mujahideen, LeT, and Jaish-e-Mohammed.
– The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is assisting Jammu and Kashmir Police in probing the attack.

*Response and Condemnation*

– The Supreme Court of India condemned the terrorist attack, paying tribute to the innocent lives lost and expressing condolences to the bereaved families.
– The attack drew widespread condemnation from political leaders, including Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as well as international leaders from countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and Pakistan ¹ ².

Countries supporting India in its international endeavors include:

– *Key Strategic Partners:*

Russia: India’s top strategic partner with a score of 62 out of 90, known for significant military equipment supplies and cooperation.

United States: A close second with a score of 58, collaborating in defense, trade, and nuclear energy.

France: With a score of 51, France is a crucial partner in India’s quest for global influence, particularly in the nuclear and defense sectors.

Israel: A significant military partner, potentially set to overtake Russia, with strong ties in counter-terrorism and space technology.

– *Other Supportive Countries:*

United Kingdom: Maintains strong military relations and cooperation with India.

Japan: Engages in joint military exercises and strategic partnerships.

Germany:  Supports India’s bid for a permanent seat at the UN Security Council.

Australia: Backs India’s permanent membership in the UN Security Council.

United Arab Emirates (UAE): A key partner in the Middle East, supporting India’s UN Security Council bid.

– *Regional Allies:*

Bhutan: Enjoys ‘strategic’ relations with India, with cooperation in defense and trade.

Bangladesh: Strengthening ties through trade and strategic partnerships.

Afghanistan: Collaborative efforts in regional security and development.

These countries have demonstrated support through various agreements, joint exercises, and diplomatic backing in international forums.