India-Pak Conflict Ends as Both Countries Agree to Immediate Ceasefire

By A.K. Sahoo / Subrat Sarangi
Bhubaneswar, May 10: The conflict between India and Pakistan, which had threatened to spiral into a full-scale war over the next few days, came to an unexpected halt on Saturday evening as both nations agreed to an “immediate ceasefire” following a high-level mediation effort by the United States.

The ceasefire officially came into force at 5 pm Indian Standard Time, bringing much-needed relief to people on both sides of the border who had been living under the constant shadow of escalating hostilities.

“After a long night of intense 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. Thank you for your attention to this matter,” posted US President Donald J. Trump on his X handle in the evening.

Highly placed sources in the Ministry of Defence revealed that the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO), Pakistan, reached out to his Indian counterpart around 3:35 pm, requesting a cessation of hostilities. Following a brief exchange, both sides agreed to cease fire along the Line of Control (LoC) and other conflict points. The decision was subsequently communicated to the international community through President Trump’s social media post.

In a special media briefing held later in New Delhi, India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri officially confirmed the development. “India has agreed to a ceasefire with Pakistan, effective from 5 pm IST on May 10,” Misri announced, adding that the country remained committed to peace but would act decisively to protect its sovereignty when provoked.

The ceasefire comes after a sharp escalation in tensions triggered by the brutal terrorist attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam valley on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians. In response, India had launched ‘Operation Sindoor’ on May 7, 2025. Over four days of intense operations, the Indian Air Force reportedly inflicted heavy damage on several Pakistani airbases, significantly weakening its offensive capabilities.

The ceasefire is being seen as a welcome diplomatic breakthrough in what was fast becoming a dangerous regional crisis.