**India and Pakistan Agree to Ceasefire Amid Rising Tensions**
In a significant development, US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that India and Pakistan have reached a “full and immediate ceasefire” following mediation efforts by the United States. This agreement comes after three days of intense military exchanges between the two nations. India confirmed that the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of Pakistan contacted his Indian counterpart, leading to a ceasefire effective from 5 PM.
The announcement coincided with reports that Pakistan was repositioning its troops along the International Border after India targeted six of its air bases in response to earlier attacks on military and civilian sites by Pakistan. The situation escalated when Pakistan launched strikes on 26 military locations early Saturday morning.
Trump expressed his satisfaction on Truth Social, stating, “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.” This sentiment was echoed by US Vice President JD Vance, who emphasized that the US would not engage in a conflict that is “fundamentally none of our business.”
However, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri clarified that the ceasefire was negotiated directly between India and Pakistan, without US mediation. He stated, “Pakistan’s DGMO called the Indian DGMO this afternoon. It was agreed that both sides would stop all firing and military action on land, in the air, and at sea effective from 5 PM.” The next discussions between the two nations are scheduled for May 12.
Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also commented on the ceasefire, asserting that Pakistan has consistently sought “peace and security” in the region while maintaining its sovereignty. He tweeted, “Pakistan and India have agreed to a ceasefire with immediate effect.”
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who has been actively engaging with leaders from both countries, noted that he and JD Vance had discussions with Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif over the past 48 hours to help de-escalate tensions. Rubio stated, “India and Pakistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire and to start talks on a broad set of issues at a neutral site. We commend Prime Ministers Modi and Sharif on their wisdom, prudence, and statesmanship in choosing the path of peace.” However, India refuted Rubio’s claims, stating there was “no decision” to hold talks on any other issues at any other location.
The call from the Pakistani DGMO came on a day when India had already targeted six of Pakistan’s air bases and destroyed drone launchpad sites, highlighting the ongoing volatility in the region.
**FAQ**
**Q: What led to the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan?**
A: The ceasefire agreement was reached after three days of heavy military exchanges, with mediation efforts from the United States, following attacks by Pakistan on Indian military and civilian sites.
