Tensions along the India-Pakistan border remain high after a ceasefire agreement was seemingly violated just hours after it was announced. The agreement, which came after days of escalating conflict, was intended to halt all military action on land, air, and sea. However, reports quickly emerged of explosions and air raid sirens in Jammu and other regions, raising concerns about the fragility of the truce.
The recent escalation was triggered by a terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, on April 22, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians. India responded with "Operation Sindoor" on May 7, targeting terrorist hideouts across the border. Pakistan retaliated with drone and missile attacks on multiple Indian cities, leading to a cycle of strikes and counter-strikes.
According to reports, Pakistan launched a fresh wave of attacks, prompting blackouts in several border districts. Explosions were heard in areas including Samba, Poonch, and Jammu. Authorities implemented blackout measures in districts including Ferozepur, Pathankot, Amritsar, and Hoshiarpur. The Indian Army reported that it had attacked three Pakistani air bases in retaliation for the strikes. Amidst the heightened tensions, at least 32 airports across India were shut down for civilian flight operations until May 15th.
Despite the ceasefire announcement, skirmishes persist, and the Indian Army stated it had "pulverized" terrorist launchpads near the Line of Control (LoC). Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, along with Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, said that the Pakistani military was observed moving troops to border areas. Officials added that Pakistan had also deployed heavy weaponry to target both Indian military and civilian areas, but that the Indian Armed Forces were fully prepared for any eventuality.
Multiple reports indicate that Pakistan used drones to target Indian positions. India Today reported that Pakistan had fired more than 400 drones across the western frontier, most of which were neutralized. The report also stated that Indian air defenses had been activated again. The Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister confirmed explosions in the region, attributing them to artillery fire and appealed to people to stay off the streets and remain at home.
The ceasefire was reportedly initiated after a call by the Pakistan Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) to his Indian counterpart. The two DGMOs are expected to hold further talks on May 12. Despite the agreement, punitive measures, such as trade suspension and visa cancellations, may remain in place. The Indus Waters Treaty, which India suspended after the Kashmir attack, would also remain in abeyance.
The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the ceasefire deal, calling it a "positive step" that should lead to peace. Guterres "hopes the agreement will contribute to lasting peace and foster an environment conducive to addressing broader, longstanding issues between the two countries".
