A ceasefire between India and Pakistan appears to be holding following a US-brokered agreement that ended days of deadly cross-border military strikes, the worst confrontation between the two nuclear-armed neighbors in decades. The conflict began after a militant attack in Pahalgam killed 26 people, prompting Indian military retaliation against targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Both nations accused each other of ceasefire violations shortly after the deal was reached, with explosions reported in Srinagar and Jammu.
Despite mutual accusations, leaders from both sides have publicly committed to the truce. Indian officials have reiterated a firm stance against terrorism, while Pakistani authorities have called for restraint on the ground. The ceasefire was praised by international figures, including US President Donald Trump, who announced the agreement on his Truth Social platform, and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who emphasized the need for a lasting peace. The US Secretary of State also confirmed plans for future talks at a neutral venue.
The fighting caused significant casualties, with Pakistan reporting 36 deaths from Indian strikes, and India citing 21 deaths from Pakistani shelling. Both countries have long claimed Kashmir, a region that has fueled multiple wars since their 1947 independence. Although the ceasefire marks a moment of relief, the situation remains fragile, and international observers continue to urge both nations to maintain dialogue and de-escalate tensions permanently.
