Violence Erupts as Kashmir Holds Regional Election in Pakistan

Fighting broke out across Pakistan-controlled Kashmir on July 28, 2026, the first day of voting for the region's 53-seat lawmaking body, after weeks of protests killed dozens. Twelve seats set aside for refugees from Indian-controlled Kashmir connect the vote to the long-running territorial dispute. A group protesting electricity prices and seat rules was banned as a terror threat; supporters fought police through election day.