Iran has made a proposal to mediate between Pakistan and India after a terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025. The attack claimed at least 28 lives, including foreign nationals, the worst single attack in the region since the 2019 Pulwama attack.
Iran’s Mediation Offer
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi spoke of Tehran’s willingness to mediate between the two countries. He highlighted the centuries-old cultural and civilizational connections between India and Pakistan, calling them “brotherly neighbors.” Araghchi stressed Iran’s interest in bringing peace and stability to the region, presenting Tehran’s good offices to de-escalate tensions between Islamabad and New Delhi. He quoted Persian poet Saadi, highlighting the common humanity and interdependence of all human beings.
India and Pakistan are brotherly neighbors of Iran, enjoying relations rooted in centuries-old cultural and civilizational ties. Like other neighbors, we consider them our foremost priority.
Tehran stands ready to use its good offices in Islamabad and New Delhi to forge greater… pic.twitter.com/5XsZnEPg2D
— Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) April 25, 2025
The Pahalgam Attack
The attack took place in Pahalgam, a tourist town in Kashmir famous for its beauty. Militants indiscriminately fired at tourists who had come to the area in the afternoon, and the bombing created general panic and chaos. Indian nationals and foreign tourists were among the victims, which shows the global reach of the tragedy. The bombing has been one of the most lethal attacks in Kashmir following the 2019 Pulwama bombing, where there was a suicide attack against Indian security forces.
The authorities in the locality and rescue units rushed to rescue the wounded. The attack has already raised the level of security alerts throughout the region. That the attack was made at one of the well-known tourist points in the country further heightened the psychological effect both among locals and tourists. This further emphasizes the escalation of the terrorism threat in the area.
Heightened Tensions between India and Pakistan
The Pahalgam attack has put great strain on relations between India and Pakistan. India has blamed Pakistan-based militants for the attack, which has led to retaliatory actions.
These have involved suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, closure of border crossings, and expulsion of Pakistani diplomats. Pakistan has denied any involvement and retaliated by expelling Indian diplomats and suspending trade and airspace access. Both countries have had cross-border skirmishes along the Line of Control, raising fears of further escalation.
Both countries have been urged by the United Nations to act with utmost restraint and refrain from any actions likely to result in further violence. The world closely watches the unfolding situation, given fears of escalation into a full-scale conflict.
