India and Pakistan Agree to Ceasefire After High-Stakes Standoff
India and Pakistan Agree to Ceasefire
After days of intense military exchanges involving missiles, drones, and artillery, India and Pakistan have agreed to a “full and immediate ceasefire”. The announcement came shortly after Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed the agreement, reached during a call between the countries’ Director Generals of Military Operations.
The ceasefire, effective from 5 pm on May 10, 2025, will halt all firing and military actions on land, in the air, and at sea. The Director Generals are expected to speak again on Monday to discuss further steps.
US Mediated the Agreement
The announcement was preceded by a surprise post by US President Donald Trump, who declared that the ceasefire was the result of a “long night of talks” mediated by the US. This marked a significant departure from the earlier US stance, which had been that the conflict was “fundamentally none of our business”.
Just a day earlier, US Vice President JD Vance had emphasized this position, stating that the US would not intervene in the conflict. However, he did add that the US would encourage both sides to de-escalate the situation diplomatically.
India Remains Vigilant
While welcoming the ceasefire, India has made it clear that it remains vigilant and committed to defending its sovereignty. During a government briefing, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh warned that Pakistan’s every misadventure would be met with strength, and any future escalations would invite a decisive response. She emphasized that India remains fully operationally ready to protect its nation.
Foreign Minister S Jaishankar echoed this sentiment in a post on X, stating that India has always maintained a “firm and uncompromising stance against terrorism” and will continue to do so.
Background: The Escalation
The ceasefire comes after a period of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. The conflict escalated following a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam on April 22, in which 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed. India blamed Pakistan for the attack, a charge denied by Pakistan. This led to a series of retaliatory strikes, culminating in Pakistan targeting Indian air bases on May 9, 2025.
