Trump Says India and Pakistan Agree to 'Full and Immediate Ceasefire'
Ceasefire Agreement Reached
India and Pakistan have agreed to a "full and immediate ceasefire" following intense U.S.-mediated talks, U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Saturday.
The agreement, effective from 5:00 pm local time, comes after days of cross-border strikes that raised fears of nuclear escalation and claimed 66 civilian lives.
On Truth Social, 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.
President Donald Trump.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the ceasefire, adding:
We commend Prime Ministers Modi and Sharif on their wisdom, prudence, and statesmanship in choosing the path of peace
Marco Rubio.
Origins of the Conflict
The ceasefire follows a week of heightened tensions sparked by India’s military strikes on targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
The strikes were in response to a militant attack on Indian tourists in Pahalgam last month, which India attributes to Pakistan-based groups. Islamabad denies any involvement.
Both nations accused each other of cross-border shelling, missile, and drone attacks, intensifying the conflict over the disputed Kashmir region, which both claim in full.
Diplomatic Breakthrough
The ceasefire was formalized after Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations contacted his Indian counterpart at 3:30 pm on Saturday, with the agreement taking effect just 90 minutes later.
Pakistan’s foreign minister confirmed the ceasefire "with immediate effect," while India’s Ministry of External Affairs noted it applies to land, sea, and air operations.
Rubio revealed that both countries have also agreed to initiate talks on a "broad set of issues" at a neutral location, signaling potential for further de-escalation.
Regional Implications
The agreement marks a significant step back from the brink of wider conflict, with both nations expressing a commitment to regional stability.
Pakistan’s deputy PM emphasized that the country has "always strived for peace and security in the region," according to the BBC.