India and Pakistan have agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire following a significant escalation in hostilities triggered by a terrorist attack in Kashmir. The agreement, effective from 4:30 PM local time, was mediated by the United States, with support from Saudi Arabia and Turkey .
The conflict intensified after a deadly attack on April 22, 2025, in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, where 26 civilians were killed and 20 others injured. The Resistance Front, an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, initially claimed responsibility but later retracted their statement. India accused Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism, a charge Islamabad denied .
In response to the escalating tensions, both nations suspended key bilateral agreements, including the Indus Waters Treaty and the Simla Agreement, marking the most serious breakdown in relations since the 1971 war .
Despite the ceasefire announcement, sporadic violence continued, including reported artillery exchanges and drone activity. Both countries have pledged to uphold the ceasefire but remain on high alert. The international community, including the United Nations and G7 nations, has called for sustained dialogue and restraint to prevent further escalation .
The situation remains fragile, and the coming days will be crucial in determining whether this ceasefire leads to a lasting peace or if tensions will resurface.
Ceasefire-by-Joe-Flood-on-Flickr-CC-BY-NC-ND-2.0
