NATIONAL: Pahalgam Attack: Jaishankar-Lavrov Discuss India-Pakistan Tensions
Deadly Terror Attack
On April 22, 2025, terrorists killed 26 tourists in Pahalgam’s (Pahalgam) Baisaran Valley, marking the deadliest attack in the Valley since the 2019 Pulwama strike. The Resistance Front (The Resistance Front), a proxy of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (Lashkar-e-Taiba), initially claimed responsibility but later denied involvement.
Jaishankar-Lavrov Talks
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar (S Jaishankar) spoke with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov (Sergey Lavrov) on Friday to address escalating India-Pakistan tensions post the Pahalgam attack. They also discussed upcoming high-level bilateral engagements and cooperation between India and Russia.
Russia’s Diplomatic Call
Lavrov urged India and Pakistan to resolve disputes bilaterally through political and diplomatic means, citing the 1972 Simla Agreement (Simla Agreement) and the 1999 Lahore Declaration (Lahore Declaration). The Russian Foreign Ministry emphasized this in a statement, highlighting the need for de-escalation.
India’s Diplomatic Measures
In response to the attack, India implemented stringent measures, including closing the Integrated Check Post at Attari (Attari), suspending the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme for Pakistani nationals, and ordering them to leave within 40 hours. Both nations also reduced staff at their respective High Commissions.
Jaishankar’s Condemnation
Jaishankar condemned the Pahalgam attack on his X account, stressing that the perpetrators, their backers, and planners must face justice. He also noted discussions on India-Russia bilateral cooperation during the call with Lavrov.
Global Concerns
The Pahalgam attack has further strained India-Pakistan relations, raising concerns in the international community. Countries like Russia are advocating for diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions and prevent further escalation in the region.