Ceasefire Declared Between India and Pakistan Amid Escalating Tensions

In a major diplomatic breakthrough, India and Pakistan have agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire, following mediation efforts led by the United States. The announcement came after US President Donald Trump shared a post on Truth Social congratulating both countries for exercising “common sense and great intelligence.” The decision was confirmed by India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, who revealed that the ceasefire will take effect from 5:00 PM IST on May 10, 2025, marking a significant pause in cross-border hostilities that had intensified in recent days.

Why in News?

The ceasefire announcement comes after a night of heavy cross-border shelling, drone attacks, and air raids between India and Pakistan, especially along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. Tensions had peaked after casualties were reported on both sides, prompting urgent diplomatic intervention by the US.

Background

• India and Pakistan have a history of repeated border skirmishes and ceasefire violations, especially in Jammu and Kashmir.
• The Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both countries often communicate during periods of heightened tension.
• The recent flare-up included drone incursions, air raids, and artillery shelling, leading to civilian and military casualties.

Key Developments

• Donald Trump posted on Truth Social about a ceasefire agreement brokered by the US after “a long night of talks”.
• Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed the agreement, reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to peace while maintaining sovereignty.
• India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri officially confirmed the ceasefire and stated that the Pakistani DGMO had called the Indian counterpart at 3:35 PM.
• Ceasefire to take effect from 5 PM, May 10, 2025.
• All military operations across land, air, and sea are to halt immediately.

Diplomatic Involvement

• The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance played key roles in facilitating the ceasefire.
• India and Pakistan DGMOs are expected to hold another round of discussions on May 12, 2025, at a neutral location.

Static Info

• India–Pakistan border spans over 3,323 km, with regular tension in LoC (742 km).
• Previous ceasefire agreement: February 2021, which broke down due to escalating tensions in 2023–24.

Significance

• Reduces immediate threat to civilian lives in border districts.
• Opportunity to reinitiate peace talks and regional cooperation.
• Reflects US’s continued influence in South Asian diplomacy.
• Sets the stage for long-term confidence-building measures between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.