Gunmen shot and killed at least 26 tourists at a resort in Indian-controlled Kashmir, marking a major escalation in the conflict where tourists have largely been spared. The attack was blamed on militants fighting against Indian rule, with at least four gunmen firing at tourists from close range. Many tourists were wounded, with dozens reported to be in serious condition.
Most of the victims were Indian tourists, with at least 24 bodies collected in Baisaran meadow. The attackers have not been identified, and police and soldiers are searching for them. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his visit to Saudi Arabia to return to New Delhi, while U.S. Vice President JD Vance called the attack devastating and offered thoughts and prayers to the victims.
Global leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, condemned the attack. Despite tensions in the region, tourists have not previously been targeted, with Kashmir drawing millions of visitors for its natural beauty and tourism industry.
The meadow in Pahalgam where the attack occurred is a popular destination surrounded by snow-capped mountains and pine forests. The region has been a hotspot for conflict since 1989, with Muslim Kashmiris pushing for independence from India or uniting with Pakistan. The recent attack marks a significant escalation in violence in the region, where civilian casualties have been historically rare.
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