What is Ceasefire? Protocol, Rules and Regulations Explained

A ceasefire is one of the most significant steps in resolving armed conflict between countries or groups. Whether temporary or long-term, ceasefires are essential tools for stopping violence, facilitating peace negotiations, and enabling humanitarian operations. They serve as a pause in hostilities and create a space where diplomacy and relief efforts can take place.

In this article, we explain what a ceasefire is, the protocol behind it, and the rules and regulations that guide its implementation.

Definition of Ceasefire

A ceasefire is an official or unofficial agreement between opposing sides in a conflict to temporarily stop military activities. The purpose is often to allow for peace talks, provide humanitarian aid, or reduce immediate tensions. While ceasefires are commonly associated with war or military conflict, they are also relevant in internal disputes and civil wars.

Ceasefires can be declared:

• By one side unilaterally
• Mutually by both parties
• With or without international mediation

They can be short-term or extended into permanent arrangements depending on the political will and outcomes of subsequent negotiations.

Importance of Ceasefires

Ceasefires play a vital role in international relations and conflict resolution. Some of their key benefits include:

• Reducing casualties and destruction in conflict zones
• Providing time for diplomatic discussions or formal peace negotiations
• Allowing humanitarian agencies to deliver aid and evacuate the wounded
• Serving as a confidence-building measure between conflicting parties

Even temporary ceasefires can de-escalate volatile situations and prevent further escalation of hostilities.

When is a Ceasefire Declared

Ceasefires are usually declared under specific conditions such as:

• After intense or prolonged military conflict
• When both sides suffer high casualties or face economic pressure
• In response to international diplomatic pressure
• As a precondition to enter into formal peace negotiations
• To observe religious holidays or humanitarian needs

Ceasefires are not limited to active wars but are also declared during internal disturbances, territorial disputes, or post-terror attack scenarios.

Protocol for Establishing a Ceasefire

The process of declaring a ceasefire generally follows a clear communication and command structure, especially in countries with formal military hierarchies. In the case of countries like India and Pakistan, the process usually involves direct dialogue between top military officials such as the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMO).

The general protocol includes:

• Initiation of ceasefire discussion by one or both parties
• Agreement on specific terms including:

1. Time and date of commencement
2. Scope (land, air, sea)
3. Areas covered by the ceasefire

• Transmission of orders down the military chain of command
• Implementation of monitoring systems to check violations
• Follow-up talks to evaluate compliance and further action

Rules and Regulations Governing Ceasefires

While ceasefires may vary in scope and duration, there are general principles and regulations that typically govern them:

• Both sides must honor the terms as agreed without violation
• Any breach of the ceasefire can be considered an act of aggression and may lead to renewed hostilities
• Ceasefires may be monitored by independent bodies or international organizations if agreed upon
• Humanitarian corridors may be established to ensure the safe passage of civilians and aid
• Terms of the ceasefire must be clear and communicated transparently to avoid misunderstandings

International humanitarian law often supports and encourages ceasefires to enable humanitarian work and protect non-combatants.

Recent Example: India-Pakistan Ceasefire of May 2025

A recent and significant example of a ceasefire was observed between India and Pakistan on May 10, 2025. The ceasefire followed 90 hours of military conflict and was declared after a direct conversation between the DGMOs of both countries.

Key points about the ceasefire:

• Initiated by Pakistan’s DGMO and agreed to by India
• Took effect at 5 PM IST on the same day
• Covered cessation of military activities on land, air, and sea
• A follow-up meeting was scheduled for May 12, 2025
• The United States supported the process as a behind-the-scenes facilitator
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that the ceasefire must align with India’s stance against terrorism
• The ceasefire was independent of India’s continued diplomatic and strategic measures, including the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty

This development marked a key moment in India-Pakistan relations, showing a willingness from both sides to pause hostilities and open the door for dialogue.

Here are 10 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), Give your Answer

1. What is a ceasefire in the context of international relations?

A. A permanent peace treaty
B. A temporary suspension of hostilities
C. A military recruitment policy
D. A trade agreement between two nations

2. Which of the following is a key feature of a bilateral ceasefire?

A. Only one party agrees to stop hostilities
B. A third-party enforces the ceasefire
C. Both parties mutually agree to stop military operations
D. The ceasefire is declared by international courts

3. What is usually the main objective behind declaring a ceasefire?

A. To prepare for a full-scale war
B. To impose economic sanctions
C. To allow peace negotiations or humanitarian relief
D. To reorganize civilian governance

4. Which institution typically facilitates ceasefire discussions between India and Pakistan?

A. Ministry of External Affairs
B. National Security Agency
C. Directors General of Military Operations (DGMO)
D. United Nations General Assembly

5. Under what circumstances are ceasefires most commonly declared?

A. After financial crises
B. When conflicts escalate and casualties rise
C. During sporting events
D. Before budget sessions in parliament

6. Which legal framework supports the implementation of ceasefires for humanitarian aid?

A. Maritime Law
B. International Humanitarian Law
C. Corporate Law
D. Criminal Procedure Code

7. What mechanism is often used to monitor compliance with ceasefire agreements?

A. Intelligence reports from allied nations
B. Media coverage
C. Military surveillance and formal monitoring systems
D. Trade embargo enforcement

8. In May 2025, the ceasefire between India and Pakistan was initiated following which major event?

A. Border demarcation treaty
B. A natural disaster in Kashmir
C. A terrorist attack in Pahalgam
D. International trade summit in Delhi

9. What role did the United States play in the 2025 India-Pakistan ceasefire?

A. Directly mediated the agreement
B. Did not participate in any way
C. Acted as a silent facilitator behind the scenes
D. Imposed sanctions on both countries

10. What is one of the diplomatic implications of a ceasefire agreement?

A. It ends the need for international diplomacy
B. It weakens the country’s military
C. It allows time for potential long-term peace building
D. It replaces all previous treaties and alliances