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Monday 23/02/2026

Deadly Car Blast Near Delhi's Red Fort Confirmed as Terror Incident

Car explosion near Delhi's Red Fort with smoke rising
James OkoroJames Okoro

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • A car explosion near Delhi's Red Fort on Monday killed 12 people and injured over 30, marking the deadliest attack in the city in over a decade.
  • The Indian government has classified the explosion as a "terror incident" linked to anti-national forces, with investigations led by the national anti-terrorism squad.
  • Authorities have detained five individuals in Kashmir, suspected of connections to the Islamist group Jaish-e-Mohammad, in relation to the attack.
  • The explosion has heightened security alerts in Delhi and neighboring states, with police uncovering significant explosive materials in related raids.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet has condemned the attack, emphasizing India's zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism.

In a tragic turn of events, a car explosion near Delhi's iconic Red Fort on Monday has been confirmed as a terror incident by the Indian government. The blast, which occurred during peak hours, claimed the lives of 12 individuals and left more than 30 injured, making it the deadliest attack in the capital in over a decade.

Government Response and Investigation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet swiftly condemned the attack, describing it as a "dastardly and cowardly act" perpetrated by anti-national forces. The government has vowed to pursue the investigation with urgency, led by India's national anti-terrorism squad. The classification of the incident as terrorism grants investigators enhanced powers to conduct raids and make arrests under the country's anti-terror laws.

Arrests and Links to Jaish-e-Mohammad

In a significant development, authorities have detained five individuals in the Pulwama district of Kashmir, suspected of having ties to the Pakistan-based insurgent group Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM). The group is known for its activities in the disputed region of Kashmir, which has been a flashpoint between India and Pakistan since 1947. Police raids have uncovered 2,900 kilograms of explosive materials, along with chemicals, detonators, and firearms, raising concerns about a broader terror network.

Heightened Security and Political Implications

The explosion has prompted a high alert in Delhi and neighboring states, including Uttar Pradesh, a densely populated region home to the Taj Mahal. As the investigation unfolds, the Indian government remains steadfast in its zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism. Prime Minister Modi expressed condolences to the victims' families, while opposition leader Rahul Gandhi called the incident "extremely heartbreaking."

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The confirmation of the Red Fort explosion as a terror incident could further strain India-Pakistan relations, already tense following previous cross-border hostilities. The involvement of Jaish-e-Mohammad, if proven, may lead to increased diplomatic pressure on Pakistan to curb insurgent activities. Domestically, the incident could bolster calls for enhanced security measures and stricter anti-terrorism laws. As investigators continue to unravel the network behind the attack, the focus will likely remain on preventing future incidents and ensuring justice for the victims.