A fragile ceasefire between India and Pakistan appeared to hold into Sunday, despite both nations accusing each other of violations just hours after the US-brokered deal was announced. The agreement follows days of intense military clashes, marking the worst confrontation between the nuclear-armed rivals in decades.
US President Donald Trump confirmed the ceasefire on his Truth Social platform, praising Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani leader Shehbaz Sharif for preventing further escalation. “Millions could have died without this truce,” Trump said. The deal came after weeks of tensions following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, where militants killed 26 tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir.
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However, the ceasefire faced immediate challenges. Residents in Srinagar and Jammu reported hearing explosions and seeing flashes in the sky shortly after the announcement. India accused Pakistan of violating the agreement, with Foreign Secretary Misri warning of an “appropriate response.” Pakistan denied the claims, instead blaming India for breaches while pledging to uphold the truce.
The recent conflict began when India launched strikes on alleged terror camps in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, retaliating for the Pahalgam massacre. Pakistan denied involvement in the attack but responded with artillery and drone strikes, leading to civilian casualties on both sides. According to officials, at least 36 people died in Pakistan and 21 in India from cross-border shelling.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio revealed that intensive diplomacy over 48 hours led to the breakthrough. “Both nations have agreed to broader talks at a neutral location,” he said. The UK and UN also welcomed the ceasefire, with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urging long-term de-escalation.
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Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reiterated India’s stance against terrorism but confirmed the “understanding on stoppage of firing.” Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called the truce beneficial for regional stability.
Despite the agreement, skepticism remains. Previous ceasefires have collapsed, and Kashmir’s disputed status continues to fuel tensions. Analysts warn that without sustained dialogue, the risk of renewed conflict persists. For now, the world watches closely as both nations cautiously observe the truce.
Disclaimer: This report is based on official statements and eyewitness accounts. The situation remains fluid and may change rapidly.