The Resistance Front (TRF), an affiliate of the Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba, has denied its involvement in the recent Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. Despite initially claiming responsibility, the group now claims that a cyber intrusion led to the unauthorized message. The denial comes as protests erupted across Kashmir, with locals expressing outrage over the violence and blaming Pakistan for supporting terror activities in the region.
TRF’s Denial and Cyber Intrusion Claim
The TRF issued a statement denying any connection to the attack, calling the attribution “false” and “hasty.” The group further claimed that an unauthorized message was posted on one of its digital platforms, taking responsibility for the attack. After conducting an internal audit, TRF suggested that the message was the result of a cyber intrusion, potentially orchestrated by Indian cyber-intelligence operatives. The group is now investigating the breach and insists it is not responsible for the attack.
The Pahalgam attack has sparked large protests throughout Kashmir, with locals expressing anger not only towards the TRF but also towards Pakistan, accusing the country of supporting terrorist groups that target India. The protests have grown into a massive show of dissent, with demonstrators voicing their frustration against the ongoing violence and their belief that Pakistan must be held accountable for the attack.
Global and National Reactions
The attack has drawn widespread international condemnation. The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) strongly condemned the attack, calling it a “reprehensible act of terrorism.” The UNSC emphasized the need to bring the perpetrators, organizers, and sponsors of the attack to justice, highlighting terrorism as one of the most serious global threats. Additionally, the United States expressed its support for India, with the Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, stating that the U.S. stands with India in its pursuit of justice for the victims.
In India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a stern message, vowing to track down and punish every terrorist responsible for the attack. He affirmed India’s commitment to justice and stated that the nation would continue to pursue those responsible “till the end of the Earth.” Modi also thanked international leaders who expressed solidarity with India in the wake of the attack.
Meanwhile, India has taken punitive steps against Pakistan, including the expulsion of Pakistani military attaches, the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, and the closure of the Attari land-transit post.
