The attack, claimed by The Resistance Front , a group linked to the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba, targeted Hindu tourists in the Baisaran Valley. Witnesses reported that the assailants, armed with AK-47s and M4 carbines, singled out victims based on their religion before opening fire. Among the deceased were 23 Indian nationals, one local civilian, and two foreign tourists from Nepal and the United Arab Emirates. Over 20 others sustained injuries.
The NYT's reporting, which referred to the assailants as "militants" and suggested that the designation of the incident as a "terror attack" was solely Prime Minister Modi's perspective, drew ire from lawmakers. The House Committee emphasised the importance of accurate terminology in reporting acts of terrorism, especially when such language can influence public perception and policy decisions.
In response to the attack, India has taken several diplomatic and security measures. The government suspended the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, a critical water-sharing agreement, and ordered all Pakistani nationals to leave the country by April 27. Additionally, visa issuance to Pakistani citizens has been halted, and the main border crossing between the two nations has been closed.
Investigations into the attack have identified Saifullah Kasuri, also known as Khalid, a top Lashkar-e-Taiba commander, as the mastermind. The National Investigation Agency has released sketches of three suspects believed to be involved in the massacre: Asif Fauji , Suleman Shah , and Abu Talha . All three have been linked to previous militant activities in the region.