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On Tuesday, a deadly terror attack shook the Indian-controlled Kashmir region, killing at least 26 people and leaving 17 others injured. The victims included 24 Indian nationals, one Nepali tourist, and a local tour guide. Most of those killed were vacationers visiting the Himalayan valley, making it one of the deadliest assaults in the region in recent years.

The attack triggered widespread protests in New Delhi and several other major Indian cities. Marchers demanded justice and increased security measures in Kashmir. Police and security forces believe the attack was carried out by armed militants opposed to India’s control of the disputed territory.

Attack Targets Tourists in Mountain Region

According to authorities, the assailants ambushed a group of tourists near a well-traveled route in the southern part of Kashmir. Eyewitnesses reported explosions followed by heavy gunfire.

Some of the injured remain in critical condition. Rescue teams worked overnight to transport victims to nearby hospitals. Security forces launched a search operation immediately after the attack, combing nearby areas for suspects.

Indian Media Points to Pakistan Amid Tense Relations

Several Indian media outlets quickly blamed Pakistan for the attack, though no official evidence has been presented. Senior Indian ministers have yet to provide confirmed details or directly accuse Islamabad.

Despite the lack of proof, India reacted with strong measures. On Wednesday, it closed its main border crossing with Pakistan. Authorities also suspended a key water-sharing treaty and reduced diplomatic ties between the two countries.

In response, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry rejected all accusations. In an official statement, the ministry expressed sorrow over the lives lost and called for a full investigation.

“We regret the loss of life and hope for quick recoveries of those injured,” the statement read.

Militant Group Claims Responsibility Online

A previously unknown group calling itself Kashmir Resistance claimed responsibility for the attack via social media. The group accused Indian authorities of settling more than 85,000 people from outside Kashmir into the region, which they described as an effort to change the local population balance.

The militants claimed that the tourists were not innocent travelers but were linked to Indian security services. However, no independent verification of the group’s claims has been made. Authorities are still investigating the origins of the organization and its potential ties to known insurgent networks.

Security officials said the style and coordination of the assault suggest it may have been pre-planned over several weeks.

Kashmir: A Longstanding Flashpoint

The Kashmir region has long been a source of conflict between India and Pakistan. Both countries claim the territory in full but govern only parts of it. A heavy military presence and frequent clashes have turned the region into a hotspot of unrest.

In recent years, India has taken steps to increase control over the region, including the revocation of its semi-autonomous status in 2019. These moves sparked unrest and led to increased international attention and criticism from human rights groups.

Global Reactions and Next Steps

So far, international leaders have condemned the attack and called for calm. The United Nations urged all sides to avoid escalation and support a transparent investigation.

Security has been tightened across Jammu and Kashmir, with military patrols increased and checkpoints expanded. The Indian government promised to enhance safety for tourists and residents alike.

Experts warn that the incident could deepen the rift between India and Pakistan, especially in the absence of direct dialogue. Tensions over Kashmir remain high, and further incidents could disrupt fragile peace efforts in the region.

As India mourns the loss of innocent lives, pressure is mounting on authorities to provide clear answers and prevent further violence. The attack highlights ongoing security challenges in Kashmir and the urgent need for diplomatic solutions.