'Thoughts and prayers with people of India': JD Vance condoles deaths in J&K terror strike

"Usha and I extend our condolences to the victims of the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India. Over the past few days, we have been overcome with the beauty of this country and its people. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they mourn this horrific attack," he posted.

In one of the worst terror strikes that targeted  tourists in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam amid the ongoing visit of US Vice-President JD Vance to India, gunmen killed at least 27 people and wounded many others on Tuesday, triggering a nationwide outrage and condemnation from all quarters.

While TV9 Network put the toll at 27, various media reports confirmed more than 20 deaths in the attack that prompted Union Home Minister Amit Shah to rush to Srinagar after he wrapped up a high-level meeting in Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently visiting Saudi Arabia, condemned the attack and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Gunshots were heard in the upper meadows of Pahalgam's Baisaran Valley around 2:30 PM, which is accessible only on foot or on horseback.

The terrorists were apparently in camouflage, and it is believed to be a targeted attack.

The attackers reportedly asked about the religious identities of the victims before opening fire on them.

The terrorists reportedly opened fire on the tourists when they were horse riding in the area.