India-Pakistan Ceasefire Holds After Calm Night

Intermediate Level | May 15, 2025

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India-Pakistan Ceasefire 2025: Background and Progress

On May 10, 2025, India and Pakistan agreed to a “full and immediate ceasefire” following a brief but intense conflict that began on May 7. The violence erupted after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, killed 28 civilians. India launched “Operation Sindoor,” targeting militant camps across the border. Pakistan retaliated with “Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos,” and the situation escalated quickly.

How the Ceasefire Was Reached

The ceasefire agreement was reached with the help of international mediation—especially from the United States. President Donald Trump confirmed that U.S. diplomats played a central role in securing peace. The Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) from both countries agreed to halt all hostilities across land, air, and sea. The ceasefire officially took effect at 5:00 PM IST on May 10.

Current Status and Reactions

As of May 15, the ceasefire remains in place, with no major violations reported overnight. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the ceasefire was a “pause, not peace,” hinting that further actions depend on Pakistan’s response to terrorism. Pakistani officials, meanwhile, called for long-term dialogue and confidence-building steps. Both sides remain cautious but hopeful.

Global Response to the India-Pakistan Ceasefire 2025

The international community has welcomed the ceasefire. The United Nations, European Union, and several regional powers have praised the move. Many hope this can be a step toward long-term stability in South Asia. The U.S. has offered to host bilateral talks aimed at resolving deeper issues between the two neighbors.

Vocabulary

Ceasefire (noun): A temporary suspension of fighting.
Example: The two countries agreed to a ceasefire after intense fighting.
Retaliation (noun): A military response to an attack.
Example: Pakistan responded with retaliation to India’s airstrikes.
Diplomacy (noun): The practice of managing international relations.
Example: Diplomacy played a key role in reaching the ceasefire.
Hostilities (noun): Acts of warfare or aggression.
Example: Hostilities between the two sides lasted for several days.
De-escalation (noun): The reduction of conflict intensity.
Example: Both nations agreed on steps for de-escalation.
Mediation (noun): Third-party intervention to resolve conflict.
Example: U.S. mediation helped broker the ceasefire.
Territorial Dispute (noun): A disagreement over land ownership.
Example: Kashmir remains a major territorial dispute.
Sovereignty (noun): Supreme authority over a region.
Example: Both countries assert sovereignty over Kashmir.
Conflict Resolution (noun): Methods to peacefully end disputes.
Example: Conflict resolution techniques were used during talks.
Bilateral Talks (noun): Discussions between two parties or nations.
Example: Bilateral talks are being proposed to maintain peace.

Discussion Questions (About the Article)

What caused the latest conflict between India and Pakistan?
How was the ceasefire agreement reached?
What role did international actors, especially the U.S., play?
What are the major risks to maintaining the ceasefire?
How have the two governments responded so far?

Discussion Questions (About the Topic)

Why are ceasefires important during international conflicts?
What makes a ceasefire successful or unsuccessful?
How can outside countries help resolve regional disputes?
What are the long-term effects of unresolved conflicts between neighbors?
What role does media play in shaping views on international peace efforts?

Related Idiom

“Bury the hatchet”
Meaning: To end a conflict and make peace.
Example: India and Pakistan agreed to bury the hatchet—at least for now—with a ceasefire agreement.

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This article was inspired by reporting from Reuters, AP News, and Wikipedia.