India, Pakistan Reach Ceasefire Agreement Following U.S. Mediation

 New Delhi, May 10, 2025 — India and Pakistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire, effective from 5:00 PM IST today, following intense diplomatic efforts mediated by the United States. The breakthrough comes after days of escalated cross-border hostilities triggered by the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 civilian lives, mostly tourists.

U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance announced the development on X, stating, “India and Pakistan have agreed to a ceasefire after U.S. mediation. Congratulations to both nations for their commitment to peace.” Vance’s post followed reports that he and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged with senior Indian and Pakistani officials, including Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif, to de-escalate tensions.

Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed the agreement on X, noting, “Pakistan has reached a ceasefire agreement with India, effective immediately, while upholding our commitment to sovereignty and regional peace.” Dar’s statement underscored Pakistan’s outreach to India, initiated through a call from Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) to their Indian counterpart.

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, in a brief press briefing, elaborated on the agreement. “At 15:35 IST today, Pakistan’s DGMO contacted India’s DGMO. Both sides agreed to cease all firing and military actions on land, air, and sea, effective from 17:00 IST,” Misri stated. He added that instructions have been issued to implement the ceasefire, with the DGMOs scheduled to reconvene on May 12 at 12:00 PM IST to ensure compliance. Misri’s remarks followed India’s stern warning that any future Pakistan-sponsored terror attack on Indian soil would be treated as an act of war, signaling New Delhi’s resolute stance.

Indian military officials, in a subsequent press conference, detailed Pakistan’s recent aggression, including attempted drone and missile strikes, and highlighted India’s decisive counterstrikes under Operation Sindoor. They also debunked what they described as Pakistan’s “false propaganda” aimed at misrepresenting the conflict, reinforcing India’s strategic and diplomatic resolve.

The ceasefire represents a significant diplomatic and military triumph for India, particularly in the context of the Pahalgam attack. By securing Pakistan’s commitment to halt hostilities while maintaining a firm counter-terrorism posture, New Delhi has demonstrated both restraint and strength. The agreement, facilitated by U.S. mediation but solidified through direct military channels, paves the way for potential dialogue to address underlying tensions between the two nations.