Local sources from India: Amar Ujala, Navbharat Times.
UK coverage: Financial Times.
In a landmark move that marks a significant turnaround in South Asian geopolitics, India and Pakistan have agreed to a comprehensive ceasefire, effective immediately from 5 PM Indian Standard Time today. This unprecedented agreement encompasses all military actions on land, air, and sea, aiming to quell the recent surge in hostilities between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. The decision was facilitated after the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of Pakistan reached out to his Indian counterpart at 3:35 PM, leading to a quick resolution to implement the ceasefire. Both DGMOs are scheduled for another round of talks on May 12 at 12:00 PM to further solidify the peace efforts. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed the ceasefire, underscoring India’s firm stance against terrorism in all its forms. The news was also shared by former US President Donald Trump on the social media platform Truth, lauding the role of long discussions mediated by the United States in achieving this peaceful outcome. Trump praised both nations for making a ‘sensible decision.’ In light of the recent military escalations, which saw Pakistan attempting to target Indian military outposts with drones and other weaponry, this ceasefire brings a sigh of relief. CDS General Anil Chauhan briefed Defense Minister Rajnath Singh on the volatile situation, following unsuccessful attempts by Pakistan to attack Indian military establishments across a wide geographical area, from Leh to Sir Creek, using 300 to 400 Turkish drones. The Indian military has been on high alert due to continuous attacks on its western borders. This ceasefire is a pivotal moment in the history of India-Pakistan relations, potentially paving the way for a more peaceful and stable South Asia.
