In a dramatic turn of events that has captured the attention of the world, India and Pakistan agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire on Saturday, May 10, 2025, halting all military action on land, sea, and air from 1700 HRS IST. The agreement, reached after four days of intense hostilities and international alarm, offers fresh hope for stability in South Asia and could usher in a new era of peace and cooperation across the region.
The Ceasefire: How It Happened
India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, the ceasefire was finalized after Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) initiated a call with his Indian counterpart. Both sides agreed to halt all forms of military action, with instructions swiftly relayed to their respective armed forces.
The ceasefire follows a sharp escalation triggered by a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 civilian lives. India responded with “Operation Sindoor,” targeting terror launchpads inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Pakistan retaliated with drone and missile attacks, raising fears of a broader conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
Despite the ceasefire agreement, violations were reported within hours. Pakistan launched drone attacks in border areas, prompting strong retaliation from Indian forces and raising questions about Islamabad’s commitment to the truce. Indian officials have reiterated their uncompromising stance against terrorism and warned that any further escalation would invite a decisive response.
Why the Ceasefire Matters for the Neighbourhood
1. Regional Stability and Security
A sustained ceasefire between India and Pakistan is crucial for the stability of South Asia. The two countries share not only borders but also deep historical, cultural, and economic ties with their neighbours, including Bhutan. Continued hostilities threaten to destabilize the entire region, disrupt trade, and hinder development efforts.
2. Economic and Social Benefits
Peace along the India-Pakistan border allows both nations to focus on economic growth, poverty reduction, and social development. For smaller neighbours like Bhutan, reduced tensions mean fewer disruptions to cross-border trade, tourism, and regional connectivity projects, contributing to prosperity across South Asia.
3. Countering Terrorism
The ceasefire creates a window for both countries to address the root causes of conflict, particularly cross-border terrorism. India has made it clear that its stance against terrorism remains firm, and international actors, including China, have urged both sides to handle differences through dialogue and consultation.
4. Diplomatic Momentum
The agreement, though fragile, demonstrates that dialogue is possible even after severe escalations. This diplomatic momentum could pave the way for broader discussions on contentious issues, including water sharing, trade, and people-to-people exchanges, benefiting the entire neighbourhood.
Cautious Optimism
While the ceasefire offers hope, its durability remains uncertain. Historically, repeated violations by Pakistan underscore the deep mistrust. Indian officials have emphasized that the ceasefire is “conditional” and that any future provocation will be met with a strong response. Nevertheless, the willingness of both sides to step back from the brink is a positive signal for the region.
