India and Pakistan have agreed to a complete ceasefire along their disputed border after a fierce exchange of fire that killed 66 people. The deal, effective Saturday at 23:00 local time, was announced by India’s Foreign Minister, S. Jaishankar. “India and Pakistan have understood to stop attacks and military measures against each other,” he said, reaffirming India’s stance against terrorism.
Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed the agreement, stating it was a full and immediate ceasefire. He credited over 30 countries with contributing to the diplomatic process. Following the announcement, Pakistan’s aviation authority reopened its airspace to all aircraft.
US Involvement
US President Donald Trump claimed the US played a mediating role in the negotiations. However, India’s government sources told AFP the ceasefire was a direct result of talks between India and Pakistan, with no third-party involvement.
Background
The ceasefire comes after both countries exchanged fire, raising concerns about potential nuclear escalation. Pakistan’s military initially stated that a high-level committee overseeing nuclear weapons would meet, but the defense ministry later denied any such meeting was scheduled.
The agreement marks a significant de-escalation in tensions between the two nuclear-armed nations. The diplomatic efforts that led to the ceasefire involved multiple countries, according to Pakistan’s foreign minister. The situation remains closely watched as both sides prepare for further military talks.