The recent terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians and injured several others, has prompted sharp international reactions. The attack, for which The Resistance Front (TRF) has claimed responsibility, has drawn strong condemnations and diplomatic appeals from both the United States and China, even as India holds Pakistan-based terror groups accountable.
🛑 U.S. Vice President JD Vance Urges Restraint and Accountability
In an interview aired on Fox News’ Special Report with Bret Baier on April 30, U.S. Vice President JD Vance stated:
“Our hope here is that India responds to this terrorist attack in a way that doesn’t lead to a broader regional conflict.”
“And we hope, frankly, that Pakistan, to the extent that they’re responsible, cooperates with India to make sure that the terrorists sometimes operating in their territory are hunted down and dealt with.”
(Source: Reuters)
The U.S. State Department has also confirmed that it is in active contact with both countries.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio held calls with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday, in an attempt to reduce regional tensions and press for counter-terror cooperation.
(Source: Reuters)
China Condemns the Attack, Expresses Sympathy
Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, posted the following message on X (formerly Twitter):
“Shocked by the attack in Pahalgam and condemn. Deep condolences for the victims and sincere sympathies to the injured and the bereaved families. Oppose terrorism of all forms.”
(Source: Times of India)
In a separate statement reported by AFP, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said:
“We mourn the victims and extend our sincere sympathies to the families of the victims and the injured. China strongly condemns this attack.”
(Source: AFP via Times of India)
🎯 Pakistan-Based TRF Claims Responsibility Amid Controversial Remarks by Gen Munir
According to PTI, the Resistance Front (TRF) — a proxy group linked to the banned Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) — has claimed responsibility for the Pahalgam attack.
The attack followed provocative comments by Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir, who described Kashmir as the “jugular vein” of Pakistan and cited the two-nation theory espoused by Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Indian officials have condemned these remarks as incendiary and escalatory.
Indian Reaction and Diplomatic Calculations
Indian political leaders and citizens alike have expressed anger over the incident, with many pointing toward state-sponsored terror emanating from Pakistan.
While India has yet to announce a formal response, New Delhi is reportedly weighing its options, balancing public outrage with diplomatic caution. Analysts believe India may opt for a measured strategy, factoring in international pressure to avoid escalation.
🌏 Global Implications
The Pahalgam terror attack has once again spotlighted the fragile nature of regional peace in South Asia. The international community, while condemning terrorism, is urging both India and Pakistan to prevent further deterioration in ties.
