The Inside Story of the India-Pakistan Ceasefire: How a Peace Consensus was Formed After 90 Hours of Standoff

New Delhi: After a 90-hour military standoff between India and Pakistan, on 10 May 2025, both countries surprised the world by announcing a complete and immediate ceasefire. This agreement is a significant step to reduce the tensions that escalated after the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025 and India's "Operation Sindoor". But how did this consensus come about so quickly? In this article, we analyze the inside story of the ceasefire, the reasons behind it, and the future implications.

The defining moment of the ceasefire: DGMO's call

On 10 May 2025, at 3:35 pm, Pakistan's Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) contacted the Indian DGMO on the hotline. After 20 minutes of acrimonious but constructive talks, both sides agreed to cease all military actions on land, air, and sea from 5 pm. "Both countries have implemented a complete ceasefire. DGMOs will talk again on 12 May at 12 noon," Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said at a press conference. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar wrote on X, "India and Pakistan agreed to stop firing and military actions. India will remain steadfast against terrorism."

Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar also confirmed on X, "Pakistan and India have implemented a ceasefire with immediate effect. We are committed to regional peace." In a statement to Geo News, Dar called it a result of "diplomacy of 36 countries." Role of diplomacy: Saudi Arabia's intervention

Saudi Arabia played a key behind-the-scenes role in this ceasefire. 

On 8 May 2025, Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel al-Jubeir met Jaishankar in New Delhi, supporting India's anti-terrorism stance. Saudi Arabia also held parallel talks with Pakistan, advising Pakistan to exercise restraint. Saudi Arabia's intervention was a strategy to balance its $27 billion trade ties with India and $5 billion investment agreements with Pakistan.

Other countries also put pressure. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres spoke to both countries, while Kuwait, Qatar, and Turkey appealed for peace. US President Donald Trump claimed on Truth Social that it was a result of his mediation, but India clarified that it was a bilateral agreement, with no third party role.

Pakistan's compulsion: Military Andheri economic pressure

There were several factors behind the initiative from Pakistan's side:

1. Impact of "Operation Sindoor": On 7 May 2025, India carried out missile attacks on nine terror camps in PoK, which destroyed the infrastructure of Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. These attacks weakened Pakistan's military position.
2. Suspension of Indus Water Treaty: India closed the gates of the Baglihar Dam on the Chenab River, threatening the water supply to Pakistan. This was an economic and strategic setback for Pakistan.
3. Global pressure: Allies like Saudi Arabia and Turkey warned Pakistan to stop supporting terrorism and reduce tensions.

India's strategy: Acceptance with strictness

India accepted the ceasefire, but on its own terms. Jaishankar made it clear that India would retaliate if terrorist activities resumed. India did not withdraw steps like suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, cutting diplomatic ties, and airspace ban. The Indian Army announced to maintain "high alert" on the LoC.

Impact on Kashmir

The ceasefire brought immediate relief in Kashmir. Firing stopped in Poonch and Rajouri, and normalcy is expected in tourist areas. "It is a moment of relief for Kashmiris," Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah wrote on Twitter. However, ceasefire violations on the LoC on 27 April 2025 have created distrust among the locals.

Challenges and future

The ceasefire reduces military tensions, but core issues like the Kashmir dispute and terrorism remain unresolved. Experts believe that without diplomatic talks and consensus on terrorism, this agreement may be temporary. Both countries will have to take concrete steps to restore trust.

Conclusion

The India-Pakistan ceasefire was the result of military pressure, Saudi Arabian diplomacy, and global intervention. India's military-economic pressure on Pakistan and appeals to the international community made this consensus possible. But serious talks on Kashmir and terrorism are necessary for lasting peace.