Pakistan ‘concerned’, China ‘shocked’ over deadly Pahalgam terrorist attack

Pakistan expressed concern over the Pahalgam terror attack, amid strong criticism of recent ‘provocative’ statements by its army chief.

Updated on: Apr 23, 2025, 14:10:20 IST

By Nayanika Sengupta

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Pakistan on Wednesday said it was “concerned at the loss of tourists’ lives” in the terrorist attack that took place in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on Tuesday, April 22.

A security personnel stands guard in a closed market during a strike call given by traders, transporters and other several organisations against the Pahalgam terror attacks in which 26 tourists were killed. (PTI)

Responding to media queries concerning the attack, FO Spokesperson Shafqat Khan in a statement said: “We are concerned at the loss of tourists’ lives in an attack in Anantnag district of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Follow Pahalgam terrorist attack news LIVE updates

“We extend our condolences to the near ones of the deceased and wish the injured a speedy recovery,” Pakistan news portal Dawn quoted the statement.

Chinese ambassador to India, meanwhile, expressed shock over the attack in Pahalgam that left 26, mostly tourists, dead. “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,” Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Feihong said in a post on X.

China's foreign ministry also offered "sincere sympathies" on Wednesday over the attack on tourists in Pahalgam. "We mourn the victims and extend our sincere sympathies to the families of the victims and the injured," news agency AFP quoted foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun as saying, adding China "strongly condemns this attack".

Condolences and reactions from across the world poured in over the Pahalgam terrorist attack, with US President Donald Trump assuring "full support” of the US and deepest sympathies to India.

The attack took place at the scenic Baisaran meadow, a popular tourist spot near Pahalgam which is also referred to as 'mini Switzerland. Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his Saudi Arabia visit and returned to Delhi, while home minister Amit Shah rushed to Kashmir on Tuesday as the attack prompted urgent high-profile moves and change in plans.

Authorities are suspecting that the attackers may have crossed over from Kishtwar in Jammu and reached Baisaran via Kokernag in South Kashmir to carry out one of the deadliest strikes targeting civilians in the Valley in recent years.

The Resistance Front (TRF), a shadow outfit of the banned Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), claimed responsibility for the attack, according to PTI news agency, with many in the country attributing a recent ‘provocative’ statement by Pakistan Army chief's statement for the strike.

Also Read | ‘Different from Hindus': What did Pakistan Army chief say days before Pahalgam horror

The Pahalgam incident occurred just days after Pakistan Army Chief Gen Asim Munir described Kashmir as the "jugular vein" of his country and referenced the two-nation theory of Pakistan’s founder, MA Jinnah.

Following the attack, strong condemnation poured in from across India. Leaders and citizens alike blamed Pakistan-based terror outfits and agencies for sponsoring the violence, while also criticising Gen Munir's remarks as "provocative" and inflammatory.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nayanika Sengupta
Nayanika is a Chief Content Producer at Hindustan Times, based in New Delhi, with over six years of experience in the digital media industry. She specialises in delivering clear, insightful coverage across general, national, and international beats, with a strong focus on breaking news and in-depth explainers. Known for her ability to decode complex developments, she enjoys unpacking layered political and policy issues into accessible, reader-friendly narratives that inform without overwhelming. She has previously worked in India's leading newsrooms, including India Today, News18, and Outlook, where she chased news, covered major events of the past six years and led teams. With a Master's degree in Political Science, Nayanika has a keen interest in international relations and global affairs. Her academic grounding shapes her analytical approach to stories, enabling her to connect the dots between domestic events and broader geopolitical currents. She is particularly drawn to stories that require context, nuance, and clarity - turning complicated subjects into compelling reads. Outside the newsroom, Nayanika is a passionate gourmand who loves cooking and sharing meals with loved ones. When she's not writing or tracking the latest headlines, she can often be found exploring local markets for fresh ingredients, seeking inspiration for her next culinary experiment.Read More

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