The ceasefire, confirmed by both governments and welcomed by the international community, comes after widespread destruction and fears of further escalation between the nuclear-armed neighbors. The agreement was reached following a call between the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMO) of both countries, with diplomatic facilitation from the US and G7 nations.
Residents on both sides of the border have expressed relief, while global leaders commended the decision as a sign of "sound judgment and exceptional wisdom".
Top military officials from India and Pakistan will meet again on May 12 for DGMO-level talks to discuss the modalities of the ceasefire and address unresolved issues. The focus will be on ensuring the ceasefire holds and on initiating broader discussions around contentious subjects, including Kashmir, cross-border terrorism, and demobilization of forces.
At a press briefing following the ceasefire, India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri clarified the nation’s position regarding any future agreement with Pakistan. He stated:
No Consensus Without Addressing Core Issues: Misri emphasized that while India is committed to peace and de-escalation, any lasting consensus will require Pakistan to take "credible, verifiable, and irreversible steps" against terrorism emanating from its soil.
Operation Sindoor Was a Response to Provocation: He reiterated that India’s recent military actions were a direct response to the Pahalgam terror attack, and that it was Pakistan’s actions that constituted "provocations and escalations".
India Will Not Compromise on Security: Misri made it clear that the Indian armed forces remain on high alert and will respond proportionately to any further hostile acts. He stressed that the ceasefire does not mean India will overlook its security concerns or the need for accountability regarding recent attacks.
Dialogue Conditional on Constructive Engagement: India is open to dialogue, but only if Pakistan demonstrates genuine intent to address India’s security concerns and refrains from supporting cross-border terrorism.
The ceasefire has been widely welcomed by the international community, with the US, G7, and other global leaders urging both sides to use this opportunity to pursue a diplomatic resolution and avoid a return to conflict. Domestically, there is cautious optimism, but also skepticism about whether Pakistan will fulfill its commitments.
The upcoming DGMO-level meeting will be crucial in determining whether the ceasefire can transition into a more durable peace process. Discussions are expected to cover demobilization, monitoring mechanisms, and the broader Kashmir dispute, as well as the need for both sides to refrain from inflammatory rhetoric and actions. As articulated by Vikram Misri, India’s participation in any long-term agreement will hinge on verifiable action against terrorism and respect for its sovereignty.
