Pakistan Senate Passes Resolution Rejecting India's Attempt to Link Pahalgam Terror Attack with Islamabad

Pakistan Senate Passes Resolution Rejecting India's Attempt to Link Pahalgam Terror Attack with Islamabad

Islamabad, April 25, 2025 — The Pakistan Senate has unanimously passed a resolution firmly rejecting India's allegations connecting Islamabad to the recent Pahalgam terror attack in Indian-administered Kashmir. The resolution denounces what it describes as "frivolous and baseless attempts" by the Indian government to associate Pakistan with the tragic incident that claimed the lives of 26 civilians.​

Senate's Stance on the Allegations

The Senate's resolution condemns the killing of innocent civilians and asserts that such acts are contrary to the values upheld by Pakistan. It criticizes India's campaign to malign Pakistan, labeling it as orchestrated and malicious, aimed at exploiting terrorism issues for narrow political gains.​Daily Pakistan English News

Response to India's Actions

In response to India's unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty—a move Pakistan considers a blatant violation and an act of war—the Senate emphasized that any attempt to stop or divert water flows belonging to Pakistan would be met with full force across the complete spectrum of national power. The resolution also mentions Pakistan's decision to suspend the Simla Agreement and close the Wagah Border Post, citing India's irresponsible behavior and disregard for international conventions.​Daily Pakistan English News

National Security Committee's Decisions

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC) to discuss the national security environment and regional situation following the Pahalgam attack. The committee decided to vehemently reject India's announcement to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, considering it a binding international agreement with no provision for unilateral suspension. Pakistan views any attempt to interfere with water flow as an act of war and has resolved to respond accordingly. The NSC also decided to hold all bilateral agreements with India, including the Simla Agreement, in abeyance until India ceases its behavior of fomenting terrorism inside Pakistan and violating international laws and UN resolutions on Kashmir.​Daily Pakistan English NewsAP News+1Daily Pakistan English News+1

Broader Diplomatic Fallout

The Pahalgam attack has led to a significant diplomatic crisis between India and Pakistan. India accused Pakistan of supporting the attack carried out by the militant group The Resistance Front, an offshoot of the Pakistan-based, UN-designated terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba. In response, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, revoked visas for Pakistani nationals, and closed its borders. Pakistan denied involvement, condemned the attack, and responded by suspending visas for Indian nationals, closing its airspace to Indian aircraft, and suspending the Simla Agreement. The United Nations has urged both countries to exercise restraint and resolve matters peacefully.​AP News+4Wikipedia+4Wikipedia+4Daily Pakistan English News+6The Australian+6Wikipedia+6Wikipedia+2AP News+2Wikipedia+2

The situation remains tense, with both nations taking reciprocal measures that have escalated the conflict. The international community continues to monitor the developments closely, urging a peaceful resolution to prevent further deterioration of relations between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.

Cardinals to meet in Rome in preparation for funeral of Pope Francis

 

In the wake of Pope Francis's passing on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, the Catholic Church has entered a period of mourning and transition. Cardinals from around the world have convened in Rome to organize the funeral rites and prepare for the conclave that will elect the next pope.​VogueAP News+1Reuters+1

 

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A Papacy Marked by Reform and Compassion

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis made history in 2013 as the first Latin American and Jesuit pope. His papacy was characterized by a commitment to social justice, humility, and inclusivity. He championed the rights of marginalized communities, addressed environmental concerns, and sought to reform the Church's financial and administrative structures. His recent health challenges, including a bout of pneumonia, preceded his death due to a stroke and cardiac arrest.​VogueReuters

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Simplified Funeral Rites Reflecting Francis's Vision

In accordance with Pope Francis's wishes, the Vatican has implemented a more streamlined approach to papal funerals. Notably, the traditional use of three coffins—cypress, lead, and oak—has been replaced with a single, simple wooden coffin lined with zinc. The confirmation of death now occurs in the chapel rather than the pope's private quarters, and the body is placed directly into the coffin without the customary display on a catafalque. These changes aim to emphasize the pope's role as a humble pastor rather than a worldly dignitary.​Catholic News+3RNS+3Wikipedia+3Wikipedia+5Catholic News+5ANSA.it+5

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Funeral Arrangements and Global Attendance

Pope Francis's funeral is scheduled to take place between April 25 and 27, 2025. His body will lie in state at the Santa Marta residence before being moved to St. Peter’s Basilica for public viewing. Breaking from tradition, he will be interred at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome, honoring his personal devotion to the Virgin Mary. Dignitaries from around the world, including U.S. President Donald Trump, Argentine President Javier Milei, French President Emmanuel Macron, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and Prince William of the United Kingdom, are expected to attend the funeral.​AP NewsWikipedia+2Reuters+2AP News+2

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Preparations for the Papal Conclave

Following the funeral, the Church will observe the "novendiali," a nine-day mourning period. Subsequently, the conclave to elect the new pope will commence no earlier than May 6, 2025. Of the 135 cardinal electors eligible to vote, nearly 80% were appointed by Pope Francis, potentially influencing the selection of a successor who aligns with his progressive vision. The conclave will be held in the Sistine Chapel, with cardinals sequestered until a new pope is chosen by a two-thirds majority. The election's outcome will be signaled by white smoke rising from the chapel's chimney, followed by the traditional "Habemus Papam" announcement.​AP NewsReuters+1AP News+1AP News+2people.com+2Latest news & breaking headlines+2

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As the Catholic Church navigates this period of transition, the legacy of Pope Francis's compassionate leadership and commitment to reform continues to resonate with the faithful worldwide.