In a significant development, India and Pakistan have agreed to a ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in the disputed Kashmir region. The announcement, made on May 10, 2025, follows intense cross-border skirmishes that have escalated tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
Background of the Conflict
The recent escalation began on April 23, 2025, following a terrorist attack in the Baisaran Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 27 individuals, including 25 Hindu tourists. The Resistance Front (TRF) initially claimed responsibility for the attack. In retaliation, India launched “Operation Sindoor” on May 7, targeting what it described as terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan. The operation lasted 23 minutes and involved missile strikes by Indian Air Force jets . Pakistan responded by striking 26 Indian military sites and claimed to have shot down five Indian jets. The ensuing clashes resulted in reported casualties on both sides.
Terms of the Ceasefire
The ceasefire agreement, brokered through U.S. diplomacy, went into effect following intense cross-border fighting that left nearly 70 dead. While India accused Pakistan of initial violations, Pakistan denied any wrongdoing and expressed commitment to the ceasefire. The Indian military issued a warning to Pakistan on Sunday via a hotline communication regarding ceasefire violations, asserting that India would respond if breaches continued.
International Reactions
The United Nations and the United States have welcomed the ceasefire as a positive step towards peace and stability in South Asia. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and General Assembly President Volkan Bozkir both expressed support for the agreement, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and cooperation between India and Pakistan.
Outlook
While the ceasefire is a welcome development, the situation remains fragile. Both nations have accused each other of initiating aggression, and clashes along the LoC continue to be reported. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, urging both countries to adhere to the ceasefire and engage in meaningful dialogue to resolve their differences.
 in the disputed Kashmir region. The announcement, made on May 10, 2025, follows intense cross-border skirmishes that have escalated tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.){kind=link}