Prime Minister Narendra Modi has declared that India “will never bow to any form of terror” as the nation marked one year since the deadly Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians.
“Remembering the innocent lives lost in the gruesome Pahalgam terror attack on this day last year. They will never be forgotten,” Modi said, adding that the country stands “united in grief and resolve”.
The attack, carried out by Pakistan-based militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba in Jammu and Kashmir, targeted civilians many of them tourists, and triggered nationwide outrage, as well as a strong military and diplomatic response from India.
International leaders also reaffirmed support for India, highlighting the global consensus against terrorism.
US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor said: “We remember the innocent victims and honour their memory… The United States stands with the people of India in their fight against terrorism.”
Israel’s Ambassador to India Reuven Azar echoed that message, stating: “We remember. Israel stands with India in the fight against terror.”
Within India, leaders across the political spectrum reiterated unity. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said preventing another such tragedy remains a top priority, while Congress leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, stressed that the nation stands united against terrorism.
The attack also prompted a significant escalation in India’s response. On May 7, 2025, Indian forces launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terror infrastructure across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
The operation, based on multi-agency intelligence, focused on dismantling training camps and key networks linked to past attacks. Indian officials said it was conducted with precision to avoid civilian casualties while delivering a strong message against cross-border terrorism.
The broader diplomatic fallout saw India take a series of measures, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, restricting travel under regional visa arrangements, and scaling down diplomatic presence.
Globally, countries including the United States, United Kingdom, France, Israel and Japan condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with India, reinforcing calls for a united front against terrorism.
India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire on 10 May 2025 at Pakistan’s request, after India carried out aerial strikes on multiple Pakistani military airbases following days of military exchanges. However, officials in India have continued to warn of ongoing security threats.
Modi reaffirmed India’s stance, saying the country remains committed to safeguarding its sovereignty and citizens.
“The heinous designs of terrorists will never succeed,” he said.
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