Quad Condemns Pahalgam Terror Attack, Backs India’s Call for Justice.
In a significant diplomatic endorsement for India, the foreign ministers of the Quad — comprising India, the United States, Japan, and Australia — strongly condemned the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam that claimed 26 civilian lives. They jointly called for urgent action against the perpetrators, organisers, and financiers of the attack.
In a joint statement issued after the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Washington, the leaders reiterated their firm opposition to all forms of terrorism and violent extremism, including cross-border terrorism.
“We condemn in the strongest terms the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. We call for the perpetrators, organisers, and financiers of this reprehensible act to be brought to justice without any delay,” the statement said.
“We urge all UN Member States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant UNSC resolutions, to cooperate actively with all relevant authorities in this regard.”
The statement also extended condolences to the victims’ families and wished a swift recovery to the injured.
Firm Stand on Terrorism
The Quad reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance toward terrorism in all forms. The ministers emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation in counterterrorism efforts, signalling growing alignment on regional security concerns.
“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 added.
Quad Meeting 2025: Regional Security in Focus
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong participated in the 2025 Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held at the U.S. Department of State on Tuesday.
The meeting featured extensive discussions on regional and global issues, with counterterrorism cooperation high on the agenda. Jaishankar also met with Rubio separately to review India-U.S. strategic ties and exchange views on international developments.
Referencing the recent terror attack, Jaishankar underscored India’s commitment to defending its citizens.
“The world must display zero tolerance. Victims and perpetrators must never be equated. India has every right to defend its people against terrorism, and we will exercise that right,” he said.
April 22 Pahalgam Attack and Operation Sindoor
On April 22, terrorists opened fire on tourists at the Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam, killing 26 civilians and injuring several others. The attackers have been linked to Pakistan-based terror outfits.
In response, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting nine terror infrastructure sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir through precision strikes. Pakistan retaliated the next night with drone and artillery attacks on Indian positions in Jammu & Kashmir and Punjab, all of which were repelled. India responded with strong counterstrikes.
Following three days of hostilities, both nations agreed to a ceasefire during direct military-level talks.
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