Hashim Musa has been identified as the prime suspect in the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, which killed 26 civilians. He is reported to be a former Para Commando of the Pakistan Army, now allegedly associated with the banned terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
Military Background and Lashkar-e-Taiba Connection
Musa formerly served in Pakistan’s Special Services Group (SSG), an elite special forces unit. He was dismissed from service, though the exact reasons remain unclear. Following his dismissal, he is believed to have joined Lashkar-e-Taiba, which has a long history of militancy in Kashmir and beyond.
Infiltration Into India and Role in Pahalgam Attack
According to Indian intelligence sources, Hashim Musa infiltrated into India in September 2023, using well-known militant routes across the Line of Control (LoC). His military training reportedly played a crucial role in orchestrating the Pahalgam attack, where 25 Indian tourists and one Nepalese citizen were killed.
Possible ISI Involvement Raises Alarming Questions
Indian security agencies suspect that Musa may have been “loaned” to Lashkar by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), citing the sophistication of the attack and his elite background. If confirmed, this would further underscore concerns of state-sponsored terrorism.
India’s Response and Geopolitical Fallout
India has reacted strongly, with sweeping internal security operations in Kashmir, mass detentions, and demolitions of suspected militant-linked properties. Diplomatically, India has revoked Pakistani visas, banned Pakistani media, and suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, intensifying tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
