Pahalgam Terror Attack: EU Urges Both Sides to Protect Civilian Lives

The European Union (EU) has strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which took place on April 22, leaving 26 innocent civilians dead. The EU, in a statement released today, expressed its firm stance against terrorism and reiterated the responsibility of every state to protect its citizens from such acts of violence.

The EU’s condemnation followed reports of the deadly assault, which occurred in a popular tourist destination. The victims, who were in the region for leisure, tragically became the targets of a terror attack. The EU, comprising its 27 member states, called the act “heinous” and emphasized that terrorism can never be justified under any circumstances.

EU’s Strong Response to the Pahalgam Terror Attack

In the official statement, the EU stressed, “The European Union and its 27 member states unequivocally condemn the heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on 22 April, and the murder of innocent civilians. Terrorism can never be justified. Those responsible for the terror attack must be brought to justice. Every state has the duty and the right lawfully to protect its citizens from acts of terror.”

The EU has been monitoring the situation in the region with great concern, especially considering the growing tensions that have followed the terror attack. There have been rising fears of additional violence and potential loss of more lives. In response to this escalating crisis, the EU urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and focus on de-escalating the situation.

“The EU is monitoring closely and with great concern the growing tensions in the region and the ensuing consequences, including the possible loss of more lives. The EU calls on both parties to exercise restraint, to de-escalate tensions and desist from further attacks to safeguard civilian lives on both sides. The EU urges both sides to engage in dialogue,” the statement further read.

The EU’s call for dialogue comes amid increasing hostilities in the region, particularly with the ongoing exchanges of fire between Indian and Pakistani military forces. These developments have further strained relations between the two neighboring nations, which have had a long history of conflict.

In addition to the EU’s statement, reports have emerged from Pakistan’s Sialkot and Lahore regions, which are dealing with the aftermath of drone strikes and airspace violations. These reports, alongside downed drones, have prompted the U.S. Consulate General in Lahore to advise its personnel to shelter-in-place. The consulate also issued a warning to American citizens in the region, urging them to leave if safe to do so.

The U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Pakistan further urged American nationals in conflict zones to remain vigilant. “If it is not safe to leave, they should shelter-in-place,” the embassy said in its release, highlighting the seriousness of the security situation.

The EU’s stance is clear: terrorism in any form is unacceptable, and all necessary measures must be taken to ensure the safety and security of civilians. Furthermore, it calls for continued efforts from both India and Pakistan to prevent further escalation and to find common ground through peaceful dialogue.