Saturday, March 29, 2025
Pahalgam Attack: Pakistan Link Emerges
A major terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, has revealed direct connections to Pakistan, intensifying tensions between the two countries. Investigations have identified one of the attackers as Hashim Musa, a Pakistani national with a background as a former commando in Pakistan’s special forces. Musa is believed to have been operating in Jammu & Kashmir for the past year and is now associated with the Lashkar-e-Taiba militant group.
Key Developments:
Attack Details:
The attack in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, resulted in the deaths of 26 people, mostly Indian tourists. This is the deadliest attack in the region since the 2019 Pulwama bombing and the largest targeting civilians in over two decades.
Militant Identification:
Security agencies have identified Hashim Musa as a key perpetrator. Reports indicate Musa is a former Pakistani special forces commando, possibly from the SSG (Special Services Group), and now works with Lashkar-e-Taiba. His military background and expertise in covert operations, navigation, and survival have raised suspicions about direct Pakistani military involvement.
Previous Involvement:
Musa is also suspected of involvement in the October 2024 Gagangir attack, which killed six non-local workers and a doctor, as well as the Baramulla Boota Pathri attack, where two soldiers and a civilian were killed.
ISI and Military Links:
Investigators believe Musa’s military background and deployment in Kashmir point to a possible role of Pakistan’s ISI in orchestrating the attack. Indian officials see this as evidence of state-backed cross-border terrorism.
Diplomatic Fallout:
In response, India has suspended the Indus Water Treaty, closed its only border crossing with Pakistan, expelled Pakistani diplomats, and scaled back its diplomatic presence in Islamabad. Both countries have suspended visas and closed border crossings, and Pakistan has closed its airspace to Indian airlines.
International Response:
The United States and other countries have condemned the attack and urged both India and Pakistan to seek a responsible, peaceful solution. The attack occurred during a visit by US Vice President JD Vance, drawing global attention to the Kashmir issue.
Ceasefire Violations:
Following the attack, there have been multiple ceasefire violations along the Line of Control, with both sides exchanging fire in sectors like Kupwara and Poonch.
Political Reactions:
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep anguish, stating the attack was aimed at destabilizing the region’s peace and prosperity. He promised severe consequences for those responsible.
Pakistan has denied any involvement, calling the accusations baseless and warning of reciprocal action if India escalates militarily.
