India and Pakistan Agree to Immediate Ceasefire Following U.S.-Brokered Mediation

Soon after the former US President Donald Trump declared an on-the-spot ceasefire between India and Pakistan, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed the news through a social media platform X post.

Dar, in his post, said, "Pakistan and India have agreed to a ceasefire with immediate effect. Pakistan has always worked for peace and security in the region, without compromising its sovereignty and territorial integrity!"

Trump announced it on Truth Social, stating, "After a long night of negotiations brokered by the United States, I am happy to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a FULL AND IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE. Congratulations to both nations." He complimented both countries for showing "common sense and great intelligence."

The U.S. State Department released a formal statement by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, underlining the concerted diplomatic efforts during the last two days. "In the last 48 hours, Vice President Vance and I have met with top Indian and Pakistani leaders, such as Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, and National Security Advisors Ajit Doval and Asim Malik. I am happy to report the Governments of India and Pakistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire and to begin discussions on a wide range of issues at a neutral venue. We praise Prime Ministers Modi and Sharif for their wisdom, prudence, and statesmanship in opting for the path of peace."

India Agrees Ceasefire

Confirming the deal, India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri spoke to the media in a brief press briefing. "Pakistan Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) telephoned the Indian DGMO at 3:35 pm IST today. It was mutually agreed that both sides would cease all firing and military operations on land, in the air, and at sea from 5 pm IST today. Directions have been issued on both sides to implement this understanding. The DGMOs will converse again on May 12 at noon (1200 hrs)."

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reiterated India's firm position against terrorism. "India has always had a firm and unyielding position against terrorism in its various forms and manifestations. It will continue to have this stance." On the ceasefire, he further said, "India and Pakistan have today worked out an understanding on stoppage of firing and military action."

Escalation and Retaliation

During the last 72 hours, Pakistan had dramatically intensified hostilities, sending drones nightly and firing a multitude of projectiles—most of which were picked up by Indian air defence units. Pakistan's attacks, in the form of artillery bombardments and machine gun fire, were reportedly directed against civilian and military targets within India.

India retaliated with accurate counter-attacks, striking solely military installations in Pakistan. Targeted sorties resulted in extensive damage at some of Pakistan's airfields. India's artillery also neutralized several of the posts on the Line of Control and International Border, including main air defense units in Lahore.

Combating Disinformation

India too has countered Pakistan's disinformation campaign, publishing authenticated photo and video footage to counter false narratives. Videos revealed the demolition of terror infrastructure, military outposts, and other critical targets along the border.

Though the ceasefire suspends ongoing military action, India's diplomatic and strategic pressure on Pakistan continues undeterred. Military spokespeople stressed the country's preparedness and toughness, saying that any subsequent acts of aggression would be responded to with a resolute and stern action. "India is fully prepared and ever-vigilant, and committed to upholding the sovereignty and integrity of the motherland. Each misadventure of Pakistan has been confronted with strength, and each further escalation will be met with a decisive response. India is fully operationally-ready to undertake whatever operations are necessary in defence of the country."