New Delhi: India and Pakistan have agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire, bringing a halt to the most severe cross-border hostilities in decades. The agreement, effective from 5:00 PM IST on May 10, 2025, was confirmed by both nations and facilitated through international mediation led by the United States, with support from other global actors.
The recent escalation in tensions was triggered by a terrorist attack on April 22 in the Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam, Kashmir, where gunmen killed 26 tourists and injured over 20 others. India attributed the attack to Pakistan-based militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba, leading to retaliatory strikes and a series of military confrontations between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
On May 7, India launched “Operation Sindoor,” targeting alleged terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. The operation involved missile strikes on nine locations, including Bahawalpur and Muridke, which India identified as hubs for Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. India described the strikes as “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” aiming to neutralize terrorist threats without targeting Pakistani military facilities.
Pakistan responded with its own military actions, including drone and missile strikes on several Indian cities. Both sides reported casualties and damage, raising international concerns about the potential for a full-scale conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbors.
In response to the escalating conflict, U.S. President Donald Trump announced the ceasefire via his social media platform, Truth Social, stating, “After a long night of talks mediated by the United States, I am pleased to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a FULL AND IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE.” U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance were reported to have engaged in discussions with top leaders from both countries to facilitate the agreement.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed the ceasefire during a press briefing, noting that the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) from both sides agreed to cease all firing and military actions across land, air, and sea. Further DGMO-level talks are scheduled for May 12 to ensure the maintenance of the ceasefire.
While the ceasefire marks a significant step towards de-escalation, both nations remain on high alert, and the international community continues to monitor the situation closely.
