After days of intense cross-border hostilities, Pakistan and India have agreed to an immediate ceasefire, confirmed Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in an official statement.
The development follows a high-level diplomatic push involving several countries, including direct mediation by the United States.
Ishaq Dar said both countries reached a mutual ceasefire agreement at 4:30 PM, adding, “War is never a solution. We conveyed that Pakistan is ready for ceasefire, but if India initiates any further aggression, our response will be firm and measured.”
US President Donald Trump also announced the ceasefire through his Truth Social account, stating, “After a long night of talks mediated by the United States, I am pleased to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a FULL AND IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE. Congratulations to both countries for showing common sense and intelligence.”
Background: from missile strikes to ceasefire
The ceasefire comes in the wake of a sharp escalation in military action between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. The tensions peaked after Indian airstrikes targeted Pakistani military bases, including Nur Khan Air Base in Chaklala, Mureed Base in Chakwal, and Shorkot base.
In a swift and forceful retaliation, Pakistan launched Operation Bunyan-un-Marsus, targeting at least 10 high-value Indian military installations. As per security sources, ‘Fatah-2’ missiles were used to neutralize strategic sites such as BrahMos missile storage depots in Beas and Nagrota, and multiple Indian airbases in Udhampur, Pathankot, Suratgarh, Adampur, and Sirsa.
ISPR Director General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry confirmed in a press conference that Pakistan's air defense systems intercepted the majority of Indian missiles, preventing significant damage. “All assets of the Pakistan Air Force remain safe. The few missiles that landed caused no substantial loss,” he noted.
Pakistan and India have agreed to a ceasefire with immediate effect. Pakistan has always strived for peace and security in the region, without compromising on its sovereignty and territorial integrity!
— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) May 10, 2025
Damage and casualties
According to Indian media reports, Pakistan's counter-strikes led to extensive damage to at least 26 Indian military locations, with casualties reported in Rajouri and Srinagar, including the death of a senior Indian administrative officer. Additionally, Pakistani drones reportedly entered Indian airspace, with one drone striking the city of Ferozepur.
Explosions were also heard in Rawalpindi and Lahore on Friday night, with blasts near the Nur Khan Air Base prompting emergency responses and temporary closure of Pakistan’s airspace until noon today.
Diplomatic breakthrough and regional stability
Dar credited the successful ceasefire to "intensive diplomatic efforts throughout the day" and extended gratitude to the countries involved in brokering peace. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to regional stability, saying, “Pakistan has always prioritized peace without compromising its sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
While both sides have agreed to halt military operations, Pakistan’s leadership has issued a stern warning: any future act of aggression by India will result in targeting of high-value economic assets.
Flight operations disrupted
Meanwhile, flight operations in and out of Islamabad Airport were disrupted, with delays reported across both national and private carriers. Officials cited the recent attacks and ongoing airspace restrictions as the reason for operational halts.
