Mon May 12 08:00:00 UTC 2025: ## India and Pakistan Cease Hostilities After Three Days of Intense Military Action
**New Delhi, May 12, 2025** – A tense three-day military standoff between India and Pakistan ended Saturday evening with an agreement to cease hostilities, although isolated incidents of cross-border firing were reported afterward. The Indian Army reported a peaceful night across Jammu & Kashmir and the International Border on Monday, the first calm night in several days.
The conflict, dubbed “Operation Sindoor” by India, began on May 7th with Indian airstrikes targeting nine terrorist hubs in Pakistan, following a deadly April 22nd terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives. Indian officials claimed the operation resulted in over 100 terrorist deaths, including those responsible for the IC 814 hijacking and the Pulwama attacks.
At a press briefing on Monday, the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) from the three Indian services detailed the operation, emphasizing the effectiveness of India’s air defense systems and the minimal losses sustained by Indian forces. They also confirmed that all Indian airfields and bases remain fully operational. Air Marshal A.K. Bharti stated that Pakistan’s support for the terrorists necessitated India’s response, holding Pakistan responsible for any damage sustained. Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai highlighted the recent trend of terrorist attacks targeting civilians and the multi-layered defense system deployed to counter Pakistani retaliation. Vice Admiral A.N. Pramod detailed the Indian Navy’s role in neutralizing Pakistani air power.
Despite the agreement to cease hostilities, sporadic shelling from Pakistan continued in several areas, resulting in civilian casualties. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha visited the family of one victim, Zakir Hussain, killed in Pakistani shelling, while Chief Minister Omar Abdullah surveyed damaged areas in Poonch district, the hardest-hit region. The death of BSF Sub-Inspector Mohammed Imtiaz, killed in Pakistani firing, was also reported.
DGMO-level talks between India and Pakistan were held on Monday to discuss the modalities for sustaining the ceasefire. Following the initial talks, some civilian airports temporarily closed last week due to the conflict reopened. Normalcy is gradually returning to border areas in Punjab, although some schools remain closed as a precautionary measure.
The events sparked debate, with former Indian Army chief General Manoj Naravane criticizing those questioning the ceasefire, stressing the trauma experienced by border residents. Meanwhile, ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan highlighted India’s growing space capabilities and the strategic role of its satellites in ensuring national security. Delhi airport reported smooth operations, despite some flight schedule disruptions. The stock market opened strongly, likely reflecting the relief at the cessation of hostilities and positive global trade news. Finally, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, who faced online criticism, received support from prominent figures including former diplomat Nirupama Menon Rao and politicians Asaduddin Owaisi and Akhilesh Yadav.
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