India and Pakistan Agree Full Immediate Ceasefire to Halt Fighting
ISLAMABAD — In a surprising announcement, Pakistan and India agreed on Saturday to a full immediate ceasefire after several days of intense attacks involving jet fighters, missiles, drones, and artillery. The news came from US President Donald Trump, who congratulated both countries for using “common sense” in ending hostilities.
Officials from Islamabad and New Delhi confirmed the ceasefire shortly after Trump’s post on his Truth Social network. This development brings hope as tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors had been escalating toward a possible full-scale war.
Trump shared, “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. Congratulations to both Countries on using Common Sense and Great Intelligence.”
Ceasefire Details and Reactions
Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that both sides would “stop all firing and military action on land, air and sea” effective 5:00 pm (1130 GMT). Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed on X that the ceasefire took effect immediately, emphasizing Pakistan’s commitment to peace without compromising sovereignty.
However, just hours later, reports emerged of explosions in Srinagar, Indian-administered Kashmir. An Indian government source claimed Pakistan broke the ceasefire, while Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Minister Omar Abdullah tweeted, “What the hell just happened to the ceasefire? Explosions heard across Srinagar!!!” Further details remain unclear.
Background of the Conflict and Ceasefire Impact
The ceasefire comes after four days of attacks and counterattacks that killed at least 60 people. Thousands of civilians fled their homes along the border and in Kashmir. The violence was triggered by an attack last month in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 tourists, mostly Hindu men. India blamed the attack on Pakistan, accusing the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist group, which Islamabad denies, calling instead for an independent investigation.
Since 2019, militants have increased operations in Kashmir after India revoked the region’s limited autonomy, placing it under direct rule. Both countries claim Kashmir in full but govern different parts since their independence from British rule in 1947.
Mixed Local Responses to the Ceasefire
Bilal Shabbir, an IT consultant in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, welcomed the ceasefire, saying, “In war, it’s not just soldiers who die, it’s mostly civilians — and in this case, it would have been the people of Kashmir.” Meanwhile, Srinagar resident Sukesh Khajuria expressed caution: “The ceasefire is welcome, but it’s difficult to trust Pakistan. We have to be vigilant.”
Military Claims and International Support
Both countries suffered substantial losses. Pakistani military sources claimed to have shot down at least 77 Israeli-made drones, while India said it destroyed hundreds of Pakistani drones, many Turkish-made. Pakistan also said it downed five Indian warplanes, including three Rafale jets, though India has not confirmed these losses. Independent verification remains difficult.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the ceasefire followed engagements by US officials, including Vice-President JD Vance, with leaders from both sides. Rubio said the governments agreed to not only the ceasefire but also to start talks on a broad set of issues at a neutral location.
International reactions welcomed the ceasefire. Britain’s Foreign Secretary David Lammy urged both nations to maintain de-escalation, while UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the move a “positive step” towards peace. Iran also urged India and Pakistan to use this chance for lasting peace in the region.