Quad Nations Unite in Strong Condemnation of Pahalgam Massacre, Vow Justice

SRINAGAR: Pahalgam’s Baisaran Valley remains at the heart of international attention as the foreign ministers of the Quad grouping – the United States, India, Japan, and Australia – issued a forceful joint condemnation of the horrific April 22 massacre on Tuesday. The attack, which claimed the lives of 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen, largely tourists, after perpetrators reportedly verified their religious identity, has sparked intense diplomatic and military confrontations between India and Pakistan.

In a joint statement released after their meeting in Washington DC on Tuesday, the Quad ministers unequivocally denounced the “reprehensible act” and called for the perpetrators, organisers, and financiers to be brought to justice without any delay. They also extended their deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wished a swift recovery to the injured.

“The Quad unequivocally condemns all acts of terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism, and renews our commitment to counterterrorism cooperation,” the statement affirmed, underscoring a united front against global terrorism. The ministers urged all UN Member States to cooperate actively with relevant authorities in bringing those responsible to account, in accordance with international law and relevant UN Security Council Resolutions.

The attack on April 22, 2025, saw terrorists spray bullets at tourists in the scenic Baisaran Valley, a tragedy that sent shockwaves across the region and beyond. The incident led to a significant escalation in tensions between India and Pakistan, with India directly attributing responsibility to Pakistan-backed elements.

India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, speaking to the press before the Quad meeting, emphasized India’s unwavering resolve to combat terrorism. “Victims and perpetrators must never be equated, and India has every right to defend its people against terrorism, and we will exercise that right. We expect our Quad partners to understand and appreciate that,” Jaishankar stated, reiterating India’s stance on self-defense against such acts.

The meeting, attended by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi, saw the Quad reaffirm its steadfast commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. While the joint statement covered a broad spectrum of regional and global challenges, including maritime and transnational security, economic prosperity, critical and emerging technology, and humanitarian assistance, the condemnation of the Pahalgam attack stood out as a clear message against terrorism.

The incident has had a profound impact on the local tourism industry in Pahalgam, which relies heavily on visitors to the picturesque valley. However, efforts are underway to restore confidence and revive tourism, with local authorities and communities actively working to ensure the safety and well-being of visitors. The strong international condemnation from the Quad is expected to further bolster these efforts and send a clear message that such acts of terror will not deter the spirit of peace and resilience in the region.