London: A senior member of the Pakistan Army heightened tensions on Saturday by making a throat-slitting gesture towards a large group of peaceful demonstrators outside the Pakistan High Commission in London, according to sources.
The protesters had gathered to voice their outrage over the recent terror attack in Pahalgam.
A video that has been shared widely online depicts the officer holding a poster of Indian Air Force Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman while ridiculing Indian protesters who were denouncing the killing of 26 tourists by terrorists allegedly supported by Pakistan. This incident has sparked significant outrage on social media, with many users labeling the act as 'sick,' 'disgusting,' and a 'clear indication of the lack of decorum among Pakistan's military and diplomatic officials.'
Watch the viral video:
Note: The authenticity and timing of the video have not been independently verified.
In 2019, Abhinandan Varthaman was captured by the Pakistani Army after his aircraft went down in their territory, only to be released two days later. Clips of the Pakistani official's offensive gesture gained traction on social media on Saturday morning, with several users identifying the officer as Taimur Rahat, the Defence Attaché at the Pakistan High Commission in London.
Reports indicate that over 500 individuals from Indian and Jewish communities gathered outside the High Commission to express their strong disapproval of the heinous attacks. The incident has received widespread international condemnation, with survivors and witnesses stating that the terrorists deliberately targeted Hindu male tourists.
Delhi Minister Manjinder Singh condemned the actions of the Pakistani official, cautioning Islamabad to 'protect yourselves first.'
'What more can Pakistan do? An apocalypse is approaching your nation, yet you threaten innocent lives. Those responsible for the threats outside the embassy will be identified and held accountable, even in England. Proceed with caution,' Singh remarked.