International Desk | BusinessToday24.com
In a major diplomatic breakthrough, US President Donald Trump announced early Saturday that India and Pakistan have agreed to a “full and immediate ceasefire” after days of escalating military exchanges between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
The announcement followed intense overnight negotiations facilitated by the United States. Posting on Truth Social, President Trump stated, “After a long night of talks mediated by the United States, I am pleased to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a FULL AND IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE. Congratulations to both countries on using common sense and great intelligence.”
Shortly after Trump’s statement, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed the agreement on social media, affirming Islamabad’s consistent stance for peace and regional stability, while reiterating that Pakistan would not compromise on its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri also officially confirmed the ceasefire at a press briefing in New Delhi. “The Government of India confirms that all military activity with Pakistan has been suspended with immediate effect across land, air, and sea. This decision is a result of sustained diplomatic engagement and reflects a mutual desire to avoid further escalation,” Misri said.
US Diplomatic Role
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio elaborated on the American role, saying that he and Vice President JD Vance were in direct communication over the past 48 hours with key leaders from both countries, including Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar, and National Security Advisors Ajit Doval and Asim Malik.
Rubio also confirmed that India and Pakistan have agreed to initiate formal bilateral talks at a neutral location, following the ceasefire agreement.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Turkish diplomatic channels were also reportedly instrumental in facilitating backchannel communications. Ishaq Dar commented that “a lot of this diplomacy was done over WhatsApp.”
Rising Tensions
The ceasefire comes amid heightened hostilities between the two countries. On April 22, a deadly attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, claimed 26 lives. India blamed Pakistan-based groups, though no direct evidence was presented. Pakistan categorically rejected the accusations.
Following the attack, India revoked Pakistani visas, shut down the Wagah border crossing, and suspended the Indus Waters Treaty—actions Pakistan described as tantamount to a declaration of war.
On May 6 and 7, explosions in Muzaffarabad and Bahawalpur were attributed by Islamabad to Indian airstrikes. In response, Pakistan launched “Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos,” claiming to have shot down five Indian fighter jets, including four Rafales. A French intelligence source reportedly confirmed the first combat loss of a Rafale jet. Pakistan also claimed to have intercepted 77 Israeli-made Harop drones and launched the Al-Fatah missile, in honor of civilians and children killed in recent strikes.
Regional Implications
Indian military officials admitted damage at five airbases, while Indian Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said New Delhi is open to de-escalation, contingent on Pakistan’s actions.
Although the situation remains tense, the ceasefire is being seen by many analysts as a vital step toward stabilizing the region. The United States and G7 nations have urged both countries to commit to dialogue and avoid further conflict.
Foreign Secretary Misri confirmed that at 3:35 PM IST, the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) from Pakistan contacted his Indian counterpart. Both sides agreed to halt all military operations across land, air, and sea beginning 5:00 PM IST. Orders have been issued to respective armed forces for immediate implementation.
Experts believe the ceasefire opens a rare window of opportunity for sustained peace efforts in South Asia.
