India and Pakistan Agree to Ceasefire Amid Rising Tensions

In a crucial step toward de-escalation, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations contacted his Indian counterpart earlier this afternoon, and the two sides agreed to halt all military actions—on land, at sea, and in the air—effective from 1700 hours IST.

Misri noted that instructions have been issued to enforce the ceasefire, with another round of DGMO-level talks scheduled for May 12 at noon. “Today, instructions have been given on both sides to give effect to this understanding,” he said.

Addressing the press briefing on Saturday, Foreign Secretary Misri stated, “Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) called Indian DGMO at 15:35 hours earlier this afternoon. It was agreed between them that both sides would stop all firing and military action on land and in the air and sea with effect from 1700 hours Indian Standard Time.”

Earlier in the day, Misri emphasised that the actions being undertaken by Pakistan against India are being seen as “escalatory” and “provocative” in nature. He made the remarks during a press briefing where proofs of Pakistan’s escalatory and provocative actions were provided alongside exposing the lies being peddled by Pakistan.

While speaking to the media, the Foreign Secretary said, “Pakistan’s actions constituted provocation, escalation. In response, India defended and reacted in a responsible and measured fashion.”

Addressing a joint press conference by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Defence on Operation Sindoor, Indian Army Colonel Sofiya said that Pakistan’s target was India’s military infrastructure, LoC, IB, and over 26 sites.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated, “India and Pakistan have today worked out an understanding on stoppage of firing and military action. India has consistently maintained a firm and uncompromising stance against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. It will continue to do so.”

Pakistan Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also confirmed the ceasefire, saying, “Pakistan and India have agreed to a ceasefire with immediate effect. Pakistan has always strived for peace and security in the region, without compromising on its sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

Earlier, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that both countries had agreed to start talks on a broad set of issues at a neutral site. “Over the past 48 hours, VP Vance and I have engaged with senior Indian and Pakistani officials… I am pleased to announce the Governments of India and Pakistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire and to start talks on a broad set of issues at a neutral site,” he said.

India had launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 in reply to the ghastly terror attack in Pahalgam on May 2, which killed 26 people. India struck nine terror sites deep inside Pakistan, prompting Pakistan to escalate with a series of unprovoked attacks using artillery guns and drones.