Sat May 10 16:31:49 UTC 2025: **India and Pakistan Agree to Ceasefire After Days of Intense Military Escalation**

SRINAGAR/LAHORE/WASHINGTON D.C. – India and Pakistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire following days of intense military escalation and deadly cross-border attacks, averting what many feared could be a fifth full-scale war between the nuclear-armed neighbours since 1947. The ceasefire, effective 17:00 Indian time (11:30 GMT) on Saturday, halts all military operations by land, air, and sea.

While celebrations erupted in Kashmir and across both nations following the announcement, reports of explosions in Srinagar, Indian-administered Kashmir, shortly after cast a shadow on the fragile peace. The cause of the explosions remains unclear.

The ceasefire agreement appears to be the result of international mediation, although the precise roles played by various nations remain disputed. US President Donald Trump claimed credit on Truth Social, while Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stated that around three dozen countries were involved in the diplomatic efforts. Al Jazeera reports suggest the UK’s recent trade deal with India may have given it significant leverage.

The agreement includes plans for broader talks, although there are conflicting statements regarding the scope and location of these future discussions. India maintains that no decision has been made regarding further talks.

Despite the ceasefire, several measures India implemented against Pakistan after April 22, including trade and visa restrictions, remain in effect. Crucially, the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, governing water sharing between the two countries, remains suspended, raising concerns about its impact on agriculture in both nations.

Experts highlight the urgent need to address fundamental political issues to prevent future military crises, particularly given the seasonal water flow between the countries.

Residents in both Indian and Pakistani-administered Kashmir expressed overwhelming relief, with many hoping for a lasting peace in a region long scarred by conflict. However, apprehension remains about the possibility of future escalations, emphasizing the need for a lasting political resolution to the Kashmir dispute.

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