India-Pakistan military conflict: what we know so far

US-mediated ceasefire announced after deadly clashes

U.S. President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan following deadly attacks between the nuclear-armed rivals. The agreement, which came after four days of intense fighting, marks a significant development in the long-standing border dispute between the two nations.

Violations reported despite ceasefire

Within hours of the ceasefire announcement, reports of violations emerged from major Indian cities in Kashmir, including Srinagar and Jammu. Blasts were heard, and projectiles were seen in the night sky over Jammu, according to authorities and witnesses. These incidents raised concerns about the effectiveness of the ceasefire.

India and Pakistan respond to ceasefire violations

The Indian foreign secretary, Vikram Misri, stated that Indian armed forces were responding to alleged ceasefire violations by Pakistan. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s information minister denied any such violations, asserting that the ceasefire had been respected.

U.S. involvement in diplomatic efforts

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the ceasefire agreement was the result of extensive negotiations involving Indian and Pakistani leaders, including Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif. The agreement was reached after both sides expressed willingness to de-escalate the conflict if the other side was willing to do the same.

International diplomacy behind the ceasefire

Rubio noted that the ceasefire was the result of broad international involvement, with over 30 countries participating in the diplomatic efforts. Pakistan’s foreign minister, Ishaq Dar, confirmed that the agreement was secured through extensive multilateral diplomacy.

Escalation of hostilities and military actions

Pakistan launched a retaliatory military operation, targeting several bases in northern India, including a missile storage site. The operation, named Operation Bunyan Ul Marsoos, was described as a “wall of lead.” India had previously launched strikes on Pakistani military installations, including the Nur Khan air base in Rawalpindi, which is close to Islamabad.

Impact on civilian areas and security measures

The strikes on Rawalpindi caused panic in the densely populated area, with loud explosions sending people running into the streets. In response, Pakistan shut down its airspace following the attacks. The military actions have raised concerns about the safety of civilians in the region.

Human toll of the conflict

At least 48 people have been killed since the conflict began, according to casualty estimates from both sides, though these figures have not been independently verified. The conflict has intensified the already tense relationship between India and Pakistan, which have been locked in a longstanding dispute over Kashmir.

Root causes of the conflict

The recent flare-up in hostilities was triggered by a deadly attack on Hindu tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir last month, in which 26 civilians were killed. India has accused Pakistan of supporting militants behind the attack, leading to a cycle of retaliation and escalation.

Looking ahead

Both countries have agreed to begin talks on a broad set of issues at a neutral site. The ceasefire agreement is a crucial step in de-escalating the conflict, but the long-term resolution of the Kashmir dispute remains a major challenge for both nations.