Indian Police Say Gunmen Kill at Least 26 Tourists at a Resort in Disputed Kashmir

At least 26 tourists lost their lives in a devastating attack this week in the scenic resort area of Pahalgam, located in Indian-administered Kashmir. According to police reports, a group of four armed militants opened fire on a crowd of visitors, targeting civilians in a region that has long experienced tensions but rarely seen tourists singled out in this manner. The gunmen, believed to be affiliated with a known militant organization, allegedly separated Hindu tourists from the group before unleashing violence, leaving over 20 others seriously injured.

This attack marks the deadliest assault on civilians in India since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, signaling a significant escalation in the regional conflict. Police described the shooting as a terror attack and have launched an intensive manhunt for the perpetrators, who escaped after the incident. The tragedy has sparked strong condemnation from both local leaders and international figures, with Indian authorities promising swift and severe action against those responsible.

The attack has also reignited concerns about the safety of tourists in Kashmir, a region renowned for its beauty but marred by decades of conflict between India and Pakistan. As the community mourns, government officials from across the globe have offered condolences, emphasizing the urgent need for peace and security in the troubled territory.