A US-mediated ceasefire between nuclear-armed rivals India and Pakistan faltered within hours of its announcement on Saturday, as explosions and artillery fire resumed across the contested Jammu and Kashmir region.
The ceasefire, declared after four days of some of the worst fighting in nearly 30 years, was intended to halt a rapid escalation in hostilities that had pushed the two nations to the brink of full-scale war. However, residents and local officials described renewed violence shortly after the agreement came into effect at 5 p.m. Indian time.
Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri accused Pakistan of breaching the agreement, telling reporters that the Indian armed forces were instructed to “deal strongly” with any repetition.
“We call upon Pakistan to take appropriate steps to address these violations and deal with the situation with seriousness and responsibility,” he said.
Pakistan’s foreign ministry, while affirming its commitment to the ceasefire, rejected India’s claims and in turn blamed New Delhi for the violations. “Our forces are handling the situation with responsibility and restraint,” the ministry said, urging frontline troops to maintain discipline and resolve issues through established communication channels.
Tensions had reached alarming levels after days of intense fighting involving airstrikes, artillery bombardments, and the use of attack drones. Blackouts and air-defence system activity were reported in several cities, echoing scenes from previous nights. The combined civilian death toll has risen to 66.
While Pakistan’s military initially said a meeting of its top nuclear command was imminent, the defence minister later denied that such a meeting had been scheduled, easing fears of an immediate nuclear escalation.
Earlier in the day, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced the ceasefire on social media, writing, “Pakistan has always strived for peace and security in the region, without compromising on its sovereignty and territorial integrity!”
Misri confirmed that the ceasefire had followed direct talks between the military operations chiefs of both nations.
US President Donald Trump, who played a key role in mediating the truce, posted on his Truth Social platform: “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.”
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