Islamabad/New Delhi – May 10, 2025 — In an unprecedented and significant development, Pakistan and India have agreed to observe a “full and immediate ceasefire” along the Line of Control (LoC) and all other sectors, renewing hopes for regional peace in South Asia.
This joint announcement followed high-level military-level talks between both countries’ Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs). According to statements issued simultaneously by both defense ministries, the ceasefire agreement took effect at midnight and will be adhered to with “strict observance by both sides”.
This breakthrough marks an historic reduction in cross-border tensions after months of hostilities that resulted in multiple casualties, damage to civilian infrastructure and mass displacement of villagers living along the LoC. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to their 2003 ceasefire agreement which had gradually unravelled due to repeated violations.
“Pakistan and India have reached an understanding that will address each other’s core issues that threaten peace or lead to violence,” read a joint statement issued between both nations. Additionally, existing communication mechanisms, including hotlines and flag meetings will be utilized more efficiently to maintain peace on the ground.
Analysts have welcomed this announcement as a much-needed confidence-building measure between nuclear-armed neighbors. Although a return to a ceasefire may not resolve deeper political disputes, former diplomat Shamshad Ahmad sees it as “an important step toward protecting civilian lives and decreasing military friction.”
Officials in both capitals have stressed that this development does not indicate a political pact but instead emphasizes the significance of backchannel diplomacy and professional dialogue as tools of change.
Recent months saw increasing calls from civil society and international partners urging both Islamabad and New Delhi to deescalate. Following their agreement, this has received cautious optimism from global powers including the UN who have reiterated the need for dialogue and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
India and Pakistan have engaged in three wars since 1947, often over Jammu and Kashmir’s disputed region. The Line of Control, or LoC, which serves as de facto border between them has often become the source of tensions and violent exchanges along this region.
Though no immediate plans exist for political talks, observers hope this military agreement can pave the way for deeper diplomatic engagement in future.
At present, those living along the border — who were most affected by years of intermittent violence — stand to benefit the most from this truce.
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