Prime Minister Narendra Modi has received calls of solidarity from world leaders following the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives. On Friday, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called Modi to convey condolences and strongly condemned the attack, labelling it a “heinous act of terror.”
The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the call via spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, who stated on X (formerly Twitter):
“PM @Keir_Starmer of the UK called PM @narendramodi and conveyed his sincere condolences for the innocent lives lost in the heinous terror attack on Indian soil… The UK stands with the people of India in this hour of tragedy.”
Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof also extended his sympathies, calling the attack a “cowardly act” and reaffirming the Netherlands’ firm stance against terrorism in all its forms. Modi expressed gratitude for the support, adding that India will continue close cooperation with the Netherlands in global counter-terrorism efforts.
Diplomatic Fallout and Strong National Response
In the wake of the April 22 attack, the Indian government has rolled out a series of decisive diplomatic countermeasures:
- Closure of the Attari Integrated Check Post (ICP)
- Suspension of the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) for Pakistani nationals, with a 40-hour deadline for departure
- Reduction of diplomatic staff at High Commissions in both India and Pakistan
- Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, a landmark 1960 agreement seen as a cornerstone of India-Pakistan cooperation on water sharing
These measures mark a significant escalation in India’s diplomatic posture and signal a strategic recalibration in bilateral relations with Pakistan.
PM Modi: Terror Will Be Crushed
Addressing the nation, Prime Minister Modi vowed that those responsible for the attack — as well as their masterminds — would face consequences “beyond their imagination.”
“This is the time to wipe out the last remaining sanctuaries of terrorism. The resolve of 140 crore Indians will crush the backbone of these enemies of peace,” Modi said.
The Pahalgam incident has triggered renewed debate on regional security and India’s counter-terrorism framework. Intelligence sources indicate the attack was orchestrated with cross-border support, further intensifying diplomatic tensions.
India is expected to push for greater international coordination against state-sponsored terrorism at upcoming global forums, including the G20 and the UN.
