In a significant diplomatic and military breakthrough, India and Pakistan have agreed to an immediate and complete cessation of hostilities across land, air, and sea, effective from 1700 hours IST, according to Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
The agreement followed a direct communication between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both nations earlier on Saturday. “Pakistan’s DGMO called the Indian DGMO at 15:35 hours today. It was agreed that both sides would halt all firing and military actions on land, in the air, and at sea,” Misri stated at a press briefing. He confirmed that implementation orders have been issued and that another round of DGMO-level talks is scheduled for May 12 at noon to monitor compliance and build on the agreement.
Misri also emphasized that Pakistan’s recent actions were “escalatory and provocative,” referencing the earlier attacks that prompted India’s robust military response under Operation Sindoor. “India responded in a responsible and measured manner,” he said.
Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, came in response to a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam on May 2, which killed 26 civilians. In retaliation, India targeted nine terror sites deep inside Pakistani territory. Pakistan responded with intensified aggression, including artillery strikes and drone incursions, prompting widespread concern over escalating conflict.
Indian Army Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, speaking at a joint press briefing, stated that Pakistan’s targets had included Indian military infrastructure and over 26 strategic sites along the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB).
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed the ceasefire, reiterating India’s firm stance against terrorism. “India and Pakistan have worked out an understanding on halting military actions. India remains uncompromising in its position against terrorism in all forms and will continue to uphold that principle.”
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also confirmed the ceasefire and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to peace while asserting its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
U.S. diplomatic efforts played a key role in brokering the agreement. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said both nations had agreed to initiate broader discussions at a neutral venue. “VP Vance and I have been in constant communication with Indian and Pakistani leadership, including Prime Ministers Modi and Sharif. We are pleased to announce an immediate ceasefire and a commitment to broader dialogue,” Rubio said.
The ceasefire signals a hopeful turn in what had been a fast-escalating conflict, with international observers now closely monitoring whether peace will hold in the coming days.
