Security forces have identified three key perpetrators behind the horrific Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, including 25 tourists and a local pony operator. The assailants, linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, have reignited cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan.

Among them is Lashkar-e-Taiba’s founder Hafeez Saeed and his deputy Saifullah Kasuri—both currently residing in Pakistan. The third, Hashim Moosa, is reportedly hiding in the dense forests of south Kashmir. A manhunt is underway, with security agencies racing to capture him alive. The aim: to unmask Pakistan’s direct role in orchestrating the carnage.

Hashim Moosa, a former para-commando in Pakistan’s Special Service Group, crossed into India in 2023 and has since been implicated in multiple terror strikes, including the deadly Ganderbal and Baramulla attacks that killed 11 people. Intelligence sources say Moosa has been involved in at least six such attacks in the Valley.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police has placed a ₹20 lakh bounty on Moosa and two of his close associates, Adil Thoker and Asif Sheikh. Informants have been promised anonymity.

Following the Pahalgam killings, India has suspended visa services for Pakistan nationals and paused the Indus Waters Treaty. In retaliation, Pakistan has threatened to pull out of all bilateral agreements, including the historic Simla Agreement.

The brutal killing of innocent civilians has now escalated into a serious diplomatic flashpoint.