New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has cut short his official visit to Saudi Arabia following the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which left at least 27 people dead, including two foreign nationals. The attack, which took place on Tuesday in the popular tourist destination of Bysaran Valley, has triggered nationwide outrage and a high-level security response.
Modi, who was in Jeddah for a two-day diplomatic engagement, was initially scheduled to return to India on Wednesday night. However, in light of the attack, the Prime Minister is now expected to arrive in New Delhi early Wednesday morning. Government sources confirmed that Modi skipped the official dinner hosted in his honor by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and prioritized an early return to manage the crisis.
During his visit, Modi held bilateral talks with the Crown Prince, focusing on strengthening strategic and economic ties. But the Pahalgam tragedy overshadowed the diplomatic mission, prompting a swift change in schedule.
Reacting to the attack, the Prime Minister expressed his grief and anger on social media platform X, stating:
“I strongly condemn the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest. All possible assistance is being provided to those affected.”
He further warned that those behind the massacre would face consequences, declaring:
“They will not be spared! Their evil agenda will never succeed. Our resolve to fight terrorism is unshakable and it will only grow stronger.”
I strongly condemn the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest. All possible assistance is being provided to those affected.
Those behind this heinous act will be brought…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 22, 2025
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval also took to X, assuring citizens of swift retribution.
“Indian Army’s operation has started in Pahalgam. Every terrorist will be dug out and sent to hell,” Doval wrote.
पहलगाम में भारतीय सेना का ऑपरेशन शुरू हो गया है एक-एक आतंकी को खोदकर जहन्नुम भेजा जाएगा!
— Ajit Doval ᴾᵃʳᵒᵈʸ🇮🇳 (@IAjitDoval_IND) April 23, 2025
Meanwhile, a coordinated counter-terrorism operation involving the Army, CRPF, and J&K Police continues in the Anantnag region and nearby areas. Security forces remain on high alert as efforts intensify to hunt down the attackers and dismantle the network behind the incident.
