In a significant development, India and Pakistan have agreed to a ceasefire, bringing a halt to all military actions on land, air, and sea. The announcement was made by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri during a press briefing on Operation Sindoor by the Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday, May 10, 2025.
The agreement was reached after the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of Pakistan contacted the DGMO of India at 3:35 p.m. Both sides concurred to cease all firing and military activities across all domains, effective from 5 p.m. on the same day. Instructions have been issued to implement this understanding, and the DGMOs are scheduled to hold another discussion on May 12, 2025, to further assess the situation.
The ceasefire follows a period of heightened tensions and military escalation between the two countries. Recent exchanges included targeting of military sites, with Pakistan launching "Operation Bunyan Marsoos" following Indian strikes on Pakistani airbases. Authorities in Pakistan-administered Kashmir reported casualties and injuries due to Indian shelling.
News of the ceasefire has been met with relief, particularly in Kashmir. Residents expressed hope for a lasting resolution to the conflict, with many praying for peace. The Pakistan Airports Authority also announced the full restoration of the country's airspace for all flights, signaling a return to normalcy.
Following the announcement, U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that the United States mediated the ceasefire talks. However, irrespective of the mediation efforts, the agreement marks a crucial step towards de-escalation and stability in the region.
The Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, emphasized India's consistent stance against terrorism. He affirmed that India will continue to maintain a firm and uncompromising approach against all forms of terrorism.
Security analysts have welcomed the ceasefire but cautioned that the recent escalation, involving the use of emerging technologies, has fundamentally altered the crisis dynamic in South Asia. They stress the importance of consistent dialogue between India and Pakistan to strengthen previous agreements and contain potential threats. Some political voices in India have called for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to convene an all-party meeting to discuss the ceasefire and take all parties into confidence.