Hours after a ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan was welcomed by UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, India accused Pakistan of violating the truce. The ceasefire, which followed weeks of escalating clashes, was announced by former U.S. President Donald Trump on his Truth Social platform.
Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that there had been "repeated violations of the understanding" reached earlier in the day and that the Indian armed forces were instructed to "deal strongly with violations along the border". Multiple explosions were reportedly heard in at least three cities in Indian-controlled Kashmir. Residents in Jammu and Srinagar reported hearing loud explosions following a blackout. Omar Abdullah, a prominent regional politician, questioned the ceasefire on social media after the blasts.
According to India's military, Pakistan targeted health facilities and schools at three airbases in Indian-controlled Kashmir. Colonel Sofiya Qureshi stated that a "befitting reply has been given to Pakistani actions". Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said that India was committed to "non-escalation" if Pakistan reciprocated, but noted that Pakistani ground forces were moving towards forward areas, "indicating an offensive intent to further escalate the situation". Singh added that the "Indian armed forces remain in a high state of operational readiness".
Pakistan's information minister denied any ceasefire violations. However, Misri said that the Indian Army was retaliating to what he called a "border intrusion". He also stated that the director general of military operations for Pakistan had contacted his Indian counterpart on Saturday, agreeing to halt all firing on land, in the air, and at sea. Further talks between the two countries were scheduled for May 12.
The ceasefire agreement came after weeks of heightened tensions, including missile strikes and drone attacks from both sides. These clashes were triggered by a gun massacre on tourists last month, which India blames on Pakistan. Pakistan denies these accusations. The recent escalation saw Pakistan firing high-speed missiles at multiple targets across India early Saturday, alleging that India had targeted three airbases inside Pakistan. India retaliated with airstrikes on Pakistani military bases.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy described the ceasefire as "hugely welcome" and urged both parties to sustain it, emphasizing that "de-escalation is in everybody's interest". Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced the ceasefire on Geo News, noting the roles of Saudi Arabia and Turkey in facilitating the agreement.
