Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri Addresses Pakistan’s Role in Pahalgam Terror Attack During Operation Sindoor Briefing

In a significant development during the press conference on Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri revealed that investigations into the Pahalgam terror attack had uncovered compelling evidence linking Pakistan to the incident. The attack, which occurred on April 22, 2025, resulted in the deaths of 28 civilians, primarily Hindu tourists, and was initially claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. However, TRF later retracted its claim of responsibility.

Misri described the attack as “marked with extreme barbarity,” noting that the victims were predominantly killed with headshots at close range in front of their families. He emphasized that the manner of the killings was deliberately designed to traumatize the family members, with exhortations to “take back the message.” According to Misri, the attack was orchestrated to disrupt the growing normalcy and development in Jammu and Kashmir, undermining the region’s progress.

Further investigations led by Indian authorities have indicated that the perpetrators received support from operatives based in Pakistan. Digital traces and intelligence intercepts have pointed to safe houses in Muzaffarabad and Karachi, suggesting coordination with elements of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has been actively involved in the probe, with forensic evidence linking the attack to Pakistan-based militants .

In response to the attack, India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The operation aimed to dismantle the networks responsible for orchestrating such attacks and to send a strong message against cross-border terrorism. Misri reiterated India’s commitment to eradicating terrorism and safeguarding its citizens, stating, “The attack was aimed at disturbing the social situation in Jammu and Kashmir that was witnessing progress and development.”

The revelations during the press conference have further strained diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan, with both nations accusing each other of supporting terrorism. The international community has expressed concern over the escalating tensions and has called for restraint and dialogue to prevent further violence in the region.

As investigations continue, Indian authorities remain focused on holding accountable those responsible for the Pahalgam attack and ensuring that such acts of terror do not derail the ongoing efforts for peace and development in Jammu and Kashmir.