Ramallah [Palestine]: Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of numerous civilians, calling it a “heinous act” and extending solidarity with India’s efforts to ensure national security and stability.
In a heartfelt letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Abbas conveyed deep sorrow over the loss of life and expressed condolences to the Indian people and the families of the victims:
“We have followed with sorrow the news of the tragic incident that claimed the lives of and injured dozens of innocent civilian tourists as a result of a criminal shooting in the regions of Jammu and Kashmir.”
“We strongly condemn and denounce this heinous act, and affirm our support for India in preserving its security and stability. We extend to Your Excellency, to your friendly people, and to the families of the victims our heartfelt condolences.”
Abbas also wished the injured a speedy recovery and prayed for the well-being of India and its people, adding:
“We pray for mercy and peace for the departed, a speedy recovery for the injured, and for continued prosperity and well-being for India and its people. Please accept, Your Excellency, the expression of our deepest sympathy.”
The Pahalgam terror attack occurred on April 22, when armed militants opened fire at tourists at Baisaran meadow in Jammu and Kashmir, killing 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen, and leaving several others wounded.
In response to the attack, the Indian government announced a series of diplomatic and strategic measures, including:
- Closing the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari,
- Suspending the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) for Pakistani nationals and ordering them to leave within 40 hours,
- Reducing the number of diplomatic staff in both Indian and Pakistani High Commissions,
- And halting the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960.
The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, governs the distribution of six rivers between India and Pakistan. Despite regional tensions, the treaty has long been seen as a pillar of water cooperation. It allocates the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab) to Pakistan and the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej) to India, with certain usage rights retained by both sides.
India’s decision to suspend the treaty marks a significant diplomatic escalation, indicating a firm stance in the wake of ongoing cross-border terrorism.