New Delhi: India and Pakistan have formally announced a ceasefire, ending more than three days of escalated military tensions, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed on Saturday. The truce came into effect at 5:00 PM Indian Standard Time following direct communication between the two nations’ military leaders.
In a press conference, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri explained the progress. He said Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) contacted India’s DGMO at 3:35 PM on Saturday. “Both sides agreed to stop all firing and military operations on land, sea, and air from 5:00 PM today,” Misri said. He further added that directions have been given to implement the truce, and the DGMOs will have more talks on May 12 at 12:00 PM.
U.S. Claims Role in Mediating Ceasefire
U.S. President Donald Trump used Truth Social to announce the ceasefire, stating it was the outcome of long U.S.-mediated negotiations. “After a very long night of negotiations arranged by the United States, I am excited to say that India and Pakistan have agreed to a total and immediate ceasefire,” Trump wrote. He praised both countries for their “good sense and intelligence” in ending the war.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio shared Trump’s views. He announced that he and Vice President JD Vance had spoken to top Indian and Pakistani leaders in the last 48 hours. They include Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. They also included Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, and National Security Advisors Ajit Doval and Asim Malik. Rubio praised both prime ministers for their “wisdom, prudence, and statesmanship” in choosing peace. He also noted that the ceasefire paves the way for wider talks at a neutral location.
Pakistan’s Ceasefire Position
Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also confirmed that agreement, highlighting his nation’s commitment to peace in the region. “Pakistan and India have agreed on an immediate ceasefire. Pakistan has always worked for peace and security in the region while preserving its sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Dar said in a public speech.
The truce represents a big de-escalation following 90 hours of heavy military clashes on several fronts. Both countries are prepared to continue discussions to resolve deeper issues, as the international community eagerly awaits the outcome.