Global Leaders Condemn Pahalgam Terror Attack, Extend Support to India

Washington/London: In a powerful outpouring of global solidarity, world leaders have unequivocally condemned the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of at least 34 people—most of them tourists. The attack, which occurred on Tuesday, has been widely described as one of the most harrowing acts of violence in the region in recent memory. Messages of support have poured in from across the world, with international leaders expressing sorrow for the victims and steadfast support for India in its fight against terrorism.
Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for UN Secretary-General António Guterres, stated: “The Secretary-General strongly condemns the armed attack in Jammu and Kashmir.”
From Europe, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and French President Emmanuel Macron expressed heartfelt condolences and condemned the violence in strong terms. Macron, in particular, emphasized the indiscriminate nature of the attack, mourning the loss of lives from diverse backgrounds. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called the targeting of tourists cowardly and assured India of Germany’s support during this time of mourning.
Russia’s President Vladimir Putin personally communicated with both President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling the attack an unjustifiable “brutal crime” and reaffirming Moscow’s commitment to deepening counter-terrorism cooperation with New Delhi.
Similarly, the United States, through President Donald Trump and Vice President J. D. Vance, expressed grief and pledged continued partnership with India in ensuring the perpetrators are held accountable. The U.S. Department of State confirmed that a diplomatic call took place between Trump and Modi, during which full American support was promised.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, along with Foreign Secretary David Lammy, echoed similar sentiments from London, describing the incident as “utterly devastating” and expressing solidarity with Indian citizens. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the attack “vile” and pledged that the European Union would stand firmly beside India during this painful time.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas also condemned the attack, writing: “I condemn today’s heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed many innocent lives. Our deep condolences go to the victims, their families and the people of India. The EU stands firm against terrorism.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu conveyed deep grief and stood in unwavering solidarity with India, describing the attack as “barbaric” and reaffirming Israel’s alliance with India in confronting extremist threats.
China’s foreign ministry also broke its usual diplomatic reticence, issuing a statement condemning the violence and extending condolences—joining several other nations in emphasizing the need for collective global action against terrorism.
Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese labeled the attack as “horrific” and “unjustifiable,” reiterating that no cause can legitimize such brutality.
Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, in a message to India, said: “Terrible news from Pahalgam. Denmark stands with India and strongly condemns all acts of terrorism. Our condolences to the victims of the attack and their families and loved ones.”
From the Middle East, the UAE and Saudi Arabia conveyed strong condemnation and heartfelt condolences. Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman personally assured Prime Minister Modi of Saudi Arabia’s support, while the UAE reiterated its firm stance against terrorism in all forms. Iran also expressed sorrow over the lives lost and wished a speedy recovery for the wounded.
The incident, which reportedly targeted tourists—many of whom were on pilgrimage—has also drawn condemnation from regional neighbors. Nepal’s Prime Minister K. P. Sharma Oli conveyed deep condolences and confirmed that efforts were underway to identify if any Nepali nationals were among the victims. Sri Lanka’s foreign ministry also condemned the attack, describing it as a direct affront to regional peace and human dignity. Responding to the deadly terror attack, Pakistan extended condolences to the families of those killed and wished a swift recovery to those injured.