India, Pakistan End Hostilities, Ceasefire Restores Calm

Tensions between India and Pakistan eased on Saturday after both countries agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire, halting several days of deadly aerial and artillery attacks. The announcement came unexpectedly through US President Donald Trump, who praised both nations for demonstrating “common sense and great intelligence.”

Shortly after the announcement, officials from Islamabad and New Delhi confirmed the agreement. The ceasefire followed overnight talks reportedly mediated by the United States, which involved senior officials from both countries. Trump stated that the breakthrough was achieved after intense negotiations, congratulating the two sides for choosing dialogue over conflict.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed the ceasefire on social media, stating that Pakistan remains committed to regional peace without compromising its sovereignty and territorial integrity. India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the military leadership of both countries agreed to halt all hostilities by 5pm local time, though he did not explicitly use the term "ceasefire." Further communication between military commanders is expected on May 12.

Military communication channels and hotlines have been reactivated. Dar noted that over 30 countries contributed to facilitating the agreement. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif thanked the US president for his leadership in securing peace, emphasising Pakistan’s commitment to stability in the region.

The ceasefire follows four days of intense military exchanges that left at least 60 dead and forced thousands to flee their homes in areas near the border and in both sides of Kashmir. The violence was triggered by a deadly attack in Pahalgam, in Indian-administered Kashmir, which killed 26 tourists. Delhi held Islamabad responsible for the attack.

During the clashes, Pakistan claimed to have shot down 77 Israeli-made drones and five Indian fighter jets, including three Rafale aircraft. India asserted it had downed hundreds of Pakistani drones, many of Turkish origin. This marked the first large-scale use of drone warfare between the two countries.

Despite the ceasefire, punitive measures imposed by both sides—such as the suspension of trade and cancellation of visas—will remain in place. The Indus Waters Treaty, suspended by India after the Pahalgam attack, is also still on hold.

There was some confusion over the terms of the ceasefire, with differing statements from Indian officials regarding future military talks. While Indian sources claimed the ceasefire was a direct agreement between the two nations, Pakistani military sources said the initiative for talks came from Pakistan’s military leadership.

The truce was welcomed by many. Civilians in Kashmir expressed relief, noting that ordinary people bear the brunt of such conflicts. Business leaders said peace would allow both countries to refocus on economic development and improving living standards for their populations.

However, reports of fresh hostilities surfaced hours after the ceasefire was declared. Explosions were heard in Srinagar and Jammu, and residents in Azad Kashmir reported renewed shelling. Authorities said some drone sightings and aerial activity were expected in the initial days following the agreement, though officials confirmed the situation was under control with no damage reported.

In the aftermath, US officials revealed that intense diplomacy had taken place behind the scenes. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance reportedly spoke directly with senior Indian and Pakistani leaders, including Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif, as well as military and national security officials. Rubio announced plans for upcoming peace talks at a neutral location.

Both Rubio and Vance commended the leadership of India and Pakistan for pursuing de-escalation. The US also offered support for further dialogue aimed at avoiding future conflicts.

In an address to the nation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif voiced hope that the ceasefire would lead to broader peace talks, including on the Kashmir dispute and water-sharing issues. He credited the outcome to Pakistan’s firm yet measured response, acknowledging the support of political parties, friendly nations, and especially China for standing by Pakistan.

The prime minister hailed the development as a “historic victory,” asserting that the response given by Pakistan's armed forces was necessary following what he described as unprovoked Indian aggression.

Meanwhile, the foreign minister engaged in discussions with his counterparts in China, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye, updating them on the regional situation. All three countries expressed support for Pakistan’s actions and restraint in the face of aggression.