FM Ishaq Dar Challenges India to Provide Evidence of Pakistan’s Alleged Involvement in Kashmir Attack
On Thursday, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar questioned India’s claims about Pakistan’s involvement in a deadly attack in occupied Kashmir, urging the neighboring country to present any evidence it might have.
Speaking at a press conference following a high-level meeting of the National Security Committee, Dar said, “India has repeatedly engaged in a blame game. If they have any proof of Pakistan’s involvement in the Pahalgam attack, they should present it to us and to the global community.”
The attack occurred in Pahalgam, a popular tourist destination in occupied Kashmir that attracts thousands of visitors each summer. Gunmen opened fire on tourists, resulting in the deaths of at least 26 individuals — all men from various parts of India, with one victim from Nepal — and leaving 17 others injured. This incident marked the deadliest assault on civilians in the region since 2000.
An obscure group, referred to by several Indian media outlets as ‘The Resistance Front,’ has reportedly claimed responsibility for the attack.
In response, India took swift action by closing its borders, downgrading diplomatic relations, and, in an unprecedented move, announcing the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government and Indian media alleged, without providing any evidence, that Pakistan had supported cross-border terrorism.
During his address, Dar outlined the decisions made by the National Security Committee and reiterated that Pakistan’s response mirrored India’s actions. He was accompanied by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and Attorney General of Pakistan Mansoor Awan.
