Relations between India and Pakistan are cratering following a deadly attack in the disputed Himalayan region of Jammu and Kashmir that left more than two dozen tourists dead, raising fears of military escalation between the nuclear-armed rivals.

India and Pakistan troops exchanged fire in the Jammu and Kashmir region on Friday, according to officials in New Delhi, as relations between the nuclear-armed neighbors continue to plummet after a deadly attack on tourists this week.

At least 26 people died and 17 others were injured when suspected militants opened fire at a popular tourist spot in the Pahalgam region of India's Jammu and Kashmir territory this week. As security forces hunt for the perpetrators,