By John Ogunsemore
US President Donald Trump on Saturday announced a historic ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, marking an end to days of intense military escalation between the nuclear-armed neighbours.
Trump announced a “full and immediate ceasefire” in a Truth Social post following a night of US-mediated talks.
“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 on using Common Sense and Great Intelligence,” the US president said.
Pakistan’s foreign minister, Ishaq Dar and his Indian counterpart, S. Jaishankar confirmed the ceasefire, which will commence at 5 pm Indian time (1130 GMT).
“Pakistan has always strived for peace and security in the region, without compromising on its sovereignty and territorial integrity!” Dar wrote on X on Saturday.
Also taking to X, Jaishankar wrote, “India has consistently maintained a firm and uncompromising stance against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
“It will continue to do so.”
The ceasefire comes after weeks of heightened tensions sparked by a deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam on April 22, which India attributed to Pakistan-based groups.
India’s subsequent “Operation Sindoor” targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, escalating into cross-border strikes that claimed 66 lives on both sides, including civilians.
Pakistan retaliated with drone and missile attacks, raising fears of a broader conflict.
Both nations have been locked in a dispute over Kashmir since they were born after the end of British colonial rule in 1947. Hindu-majority India and Islamic Pakistan both claim Kashmir in full but rule it in part.