The ceasefire comes after days of escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, with Pakistan launching unprovoked attacks across the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir. The situation had raised fears of a potential full-scale war between the two countries.
“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,” Trump posted on his Truth Social platform. His message was shared by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who had held talks with senior leaders of both countries and encouraged both to de-escalate tensions after the Pahalgam terror attack, where 26 people, mostly tourists were gunned down.
Trump’s announcement came as a surprise to many, as the US had previously been hesitant to get involved in the long-standing conflict between India and Pakistan. However, with the situation escalating rapidly and the risk of a nuclear confrontation looming, the US stepped in to mediate talks between the two countries.
The ceasefire agreement was met with cautious optimism by both Indian and Pakistani officials. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the news, stating that “peace is always the preferred option.” Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif also expressed his support for the ceasefire, calling it a “positive step towards de-escalation.”
The ceasefire agreement includes provisions for both countries to pull back their forces from the border, as well as a commitment to dialogue to address the root causes of the conflict. Both countries have also agreed to allow international observers to monitor the ceasefire to ensure compliance.
The announcement has been met with relief by the international community, with world leaders praising the efforts of the US in brokering the ceasefire. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed the news, calling it a “significant step towards peace and stability in the region.”
While the ceasefire is a positive development, many are cautious about the long-term prospects for peace between India and Pakistan. The two countries have a history of conflict and mistrust, and many fear that the ceasefire could be temporary. However, for now, the people of India and Pakistan can breathe a sigh of relief as the threat of war recedes.