Mon May 12 00:55:45 UTC 2025: ## India-Pakistan Tensions Escalate Despite Ceasefire Announcement
**New Delhi, May 12, 2025** – India and Pakistan remain locked in a tense standoff despite a reported ceasefire agreement, sparking confusion and controversy. A complete blackout was enforced in Rajasthan’s Barmer district on Sunday night following the sighting of incoming drones suspected to have originated from Pakistan.
While Indian Air Force Director General of Air Operations Air Marshal Bharti confirmed the completion of Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terrorist camps in Pakistan, he declined to comment on potential Indian aircraft losses. He stated that the operation’s objectives were met and all pilots returned safely. The admission of a combat scenario fueled further uncertainty.
Adding to the complexity, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri faced intense online criticism following his announcement of a ceasefire, a declaration that the Congress party questioned, demanding clarification on whether third-party mediation on Kashmir had been accepted. The IAS Association voiced its support for Misri, condemning the personal attacks.
Meanwhile, Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to the ceasefire, while India announced it would suspend the Indus Waters Treaty due to continued cross-border terrorism. A government official indicated that India would respond with greater force to any further attacks.
On a separate note, the Total Fertility Rate in India remained stable at 2.0 in 2021. Furthermore, the US and China reported progress in trade talks aimed at easing tensions, while Hamas announced the release of the last American hostage in Gaza as part of ceasefire efforts. Bangladesh’s Awami League rejected its ban by the interim government.
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