Trump Offers Condolences After Deadly Attack on Tourists in Kashmir

President Donald Trump expressed his "deepest sympathies" after a horrendous attack in India's Kashmir region left at least 20 people dead. The attack, which targeted tourists at a resort in the picturesque Pahalgam area, has shaken the country and drawn international attention.

Trump posted on TRUTH Social, calling the news "deeply disturbing" and reaffirming America's solidarity with India in the fight against terrorism. He shared prayers for the victims and support for Prime Minister Modi and the people of India, underscoring, "Our hearts are with you all!"

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump was briefed on the situation by National Security Adviser Mike Waltz. She noted the president intends to speak with Prime Minister Modi soon to personally convey his condolences, promising a readout of that call later in the day. Leavitt also highlighted the importance of standing together against terrorism, adding that such attacks are exactly what motivates ongoing efforts for global peace and stability.

The tragedy coincided with Vice President JD Vance's visit to India. Vance, who had just met with Modi in Jaipur to discuss strengthening economic ties between the two nations, issued his own heartfelt message on X. Alongside his wife Usha, Vance offered condolences and reflected on the beauty of India—a country now mourning a senseless loss.

Indian police reported that at least 20 tourists were killed and dozens injured when four gunmen, described as militants, opened fire at close range in the Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam. Many of the victims were Indian nationals, and the attack is being called one of the deadliest on civilians in the region in recent years. The idyllic meadow, framed by snowy mountains and pine forests, is typically filled with hundreds of visitors daily, drawn by Kashmir's unique charm and, usually, its careful security presence.

Prime Minister Modi condemned the "heinous" attack and promised justice, vowing that those responsible "will not be spared" and that India's determination to fight terrorism will only grow stronger. Home Minister Amit Shah echoed this sentiment, pledging severe consequences for the perpetrators and convening an emergency security meeting in Srinagar.

Although there has been no immediate claim of responsibility, police and soldiers are actively searching for the attackers. Kashmir, a region long contested by both India and Pakistan, is no stranger to violence, but attacks on tourists remain exceedingly rare—making this particular incident even more alarming.

Resistance leader and religious cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq condemned the attack, calling it "cowardly" and "against the ethos of Kashmir, which welcomes visitors with love and warmth." The sentiment was widely shared, with officials and citizens alike expressing horror at violence that shattered the region's fragile sense of normalcy.

The investigation continues, and security remains tight as all eyes turn to how India will respond to this latest tragedy.