Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam. In a high-level security meeting, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has granted the Indian Army a free hand to respond decisively to the provocation.

PARIS: A deadly attack in the contested Kashmir region has prompted fears of spiralling conflict between nuclear-armed India and Pakistan. New Delhi, which accuses Pakistan of backing the attack, has not yet taken military action.

Afghanistan's acting Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi strongly condemned the Pahalgan attack. Earlier too, the Taliban condemned the terrorist attack and said that such incidents undermine efforts to ensure regional security and stability.