The brutal terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam on Tuesday that left 26 civilians dead has drawn sharp condemnation from world leaders, who have united in expressing grief, outrage, and solidarity with India. As security forces intensify their operations in the region, the international community has called for swift justice and reaffirmed its stance against terrorism.

In a rare convergence of global voices, leaders across geopolitical divides, from the US to Russia to China, have issued strong statements. Russian President Vladimir Putin called the act a “brutal crime with no justification whatsoever,” adding that those responsible must face “deserved punishment.” U.S. President Donald Trump, taking to Truth Social, described the incident as “deeply disturbing,” saying, “The United States stands strong with India against terrorism,” and offering full support to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian people.

Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Feihong also condemned the attack, offering “deep condolences for the victims” and stating, “We oppose terrorism in all forms.” UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer termed the attack “utterly devastating,” while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended support to his “dear friend” Narendra Modi, stating that “Israel stands with India in its fight against terrorism.” Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni too expressed sorrow, reaffirming Italy’s solidarity with the families of the victims and the Indian government.

The attack occurred around 3 PM in the Baisaran valley on Tuesday—popularly known as ‘mini Switzerland’ for its scenic meadows—when unidentified gunmen descended from the surrounding mountains and opened fire on unarmed tourists. At least 20 others were injured. Eyewitnesses reported scenes of chaos as locals and pony-owners rushed to evacuate the injured. Helicopters were later deployed for emergency evacuations.

Today, following the attack, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chaired a high-level security meeting with NSA Ajit Doval, IAF Chief Air Marshal AP Singh, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, and Navy Chief Dinesh Tripathi to assess the situation. Prime Minister Modi, who returned early from his scheduled visit to Saudi Arabia, skipped the official banquet and flew back to Delhi in the wake of the attack.

“This heinous attack will not go unpunished. Our resolve to fight terrorism remains unshakable,” Modi said in a statement following his return.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, while condemning the attack, said he had spoken to Home Minister Amit Shah, Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and Congress’ state unit chief Tariq Karra. “The families of victims deserve justice and our fullest support,” Gandhi said.

The timing of the attack is particularly alarming, as Kashmir has been witnessing a surge in tourism after years of militancy. The 38-day Amarnath Yatra, scheduled to begin on July 3, has now come under fresh security scrutiny.