Five militants reportedly massacred 26 individuals in Pahalgam, a tourist destination in Indian administered Kashmir, April 22, leading to rising tensions between Pakistan and India. 

In the scenic views of Pahalgam, a militant group of 5 gunmen separated victims of the incident based on religious views. Then, they massacred 26 men at close range. Of these victims, 25 of them were from Hindu descent. The militant group who was responsible for the massacre has claimed themselves to be the Kashmir Resistance. 

One of these individuals went on the trip to Kashmir in hopes of bringing joy and peace to his wife who was paralyzed. Another wanted to return home in order to celebrate his recent retirement by spending time with family. These are two individuals among the 26 who are now only a memory to the hearts of India. 

Following the recent massacre, India has claimed the militant group is supported by Pakistan’s military and was created as a front. In a press conference, April 24, Pakistan’s deputy prime minister and foreign minister Ishaq Dar denied that Pakistan was involved in the tragedy. 

Despite this, the tensions between both countries continue to rise. India sent missile strikes, May 7, into at least 3 Pakistani-controlled locations they claim to be infrastructure utilized by militant groups. As a counter, Pakistan retaliated with several days of cross-border fighting. Over 40 casualties from both sides resulted due to the hostilities. 

Ceasefire was announced May 10 after the United States was involved which has brought a temporary stop to the violence. However, the tension between Pakistan and India remains volatile. As Pakistan aims to defend its sovereignty, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi warns the public that the Indian military will give swift responses if any attacks continue. 

Until peace overrides the destruction between both countries, each region is one ignition away from a spark that could lead to catastrophe.