In its first official reaction to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, Pakistan denied any involvement and claimed the assault was the result of India’s internal unrest. The statement, which comes amid growing international condemnation of the violence, marks Pakistan’s attempt to shift responsibility, while also offering condolences to the victims of one of the worst attacks in the Valley since Pulwama.
Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said the country had “no link” to the attack in Jammu and Kashmir and reiterated that Pakistan rejects terrorism “in all its forms.” He further alleged that the violence was driven by domestic tensions in India, pointing to unrest in several Indian states including Manipur, Nagaland, Chhattisgarh, and Kashmir itself.
“The Central government in India is facing resistance in many regions,” Asif stated. “This attack appears to be home-grown, a result of the exploitation happening within India. We do not endorse any form of terrorism and strongly believe that civilians should never be targets.”
Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also responded, expressing concern over the loss of lives in Anantnag district, where the attack took place. “We extend our condolences to the families of the deceased and wish a speedy recovery to the injured,” a spokesperson said.
According to Indian officials, the attack unfolded at a popular tourist spot near Pahalgam on Tuesday afternoon. Armed terrorists opened fire on a crowd of holidaymakers, killing 26 people, including two foreign nationals from the UAE and Nepal. Two locals also died in the violence. The location, known for its scenic Baisaran meadow, was filled with tourists when the attack happened.
Victims from several Indian states were caught in the chaos. Tourists from Karnataka, Maharashtra, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh were among the deceased. Injured persons included at least one from Gujarat, three from Tamil Nadu, and two from Maharashtra. The brutal assault has sparked nationwide mourning and renewed calls for accountability.
Khawaja Asif also said that Pakistan becomes an “easy target” whenever violence erupts in Kashmir, implying that such attacks are quickly attributed to Pakistan regardless of the facts. However, the Indian government continues to investigate the perpetrators, believed to be linked to Pakistan-backed militant networks.
