Pakistan Open to Neutral Probe After Deadly Pahalgam Attack in Kashmir

In the wake of a deadly assault in Indian-administered Kashmir's Pahalgam region that claimed the lives of 26 people, Pakistan has announced it is "fully prepared to cooperate with any neutral investigators" to uncover the truth behind the attack.

The declaration comes amid escalating hostilities along the Line of Control (LoC), where Indian and Pakistani forces have reportedly exchanged heavy gunfire for a second consecutive day.

India has squarely blamed Pakistan-based militants for orchestrating the deadly ambush in Pahalgam earlier this week. In response, Islamabad has denied any involvement and instead offered full cooperation with an independent inquiry.

"Pakistan stands ready to work with any impartial global body to investigate the incident transparently," a government spokesperson said Thursday, emphasizing the country’s stance against terrorism.

Meanwhile, tensions continue to flare across the LoC, raising fears of further military escalation. Cross-border exchanges of fire were reported in several sectors on Friday morning, as both nations trade accusations over ceasefire violations.

This incident marks one of the deadliest attacks in the region in recent years and comes at a time of already strained relations between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. Analysts warn that the fallout could derail diplomatic channels and impact regional stability.

The international community, including the United Nations, has urged both countries to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to prevent further bloodshed.