On May 12, 2025, military officials from India and Pakistan are scheduled to hold discussions on future steps following a U.S.-brokered ceasefire that has brought relative calm to the border region after four days of intense cross-border hostilities. India reported that Sunday night was the first peaceful night in recent days, though some schools remain closed as a precaution.

The ceasefire, announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, followed a period of intense firing and diplomatic pressure from Washington. India’s military sent a “hotline” message to Pakistan on Sunday regarding the previous day’s ceasefire violations, indicating New Delhi’s intent to respond to further such incidents. A spokesman for Pakistan’s military denied any violations.

The upcoming dialogue between the director generals of military operations from both countries is seen as a critical step toward stabilizing the situation. While Pakistan has welcomed U.S. mediation, India maintains that bilateral issues must be resolved directly.

The recent conflict was sparked by an attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 tourists, which India blamed on Pakistan-backed militants—a claim Islamabad denies. In response, India conducted airstrikes on what it described as terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistani-administered Kashmir. Pakistan contends that the sites attacked were civilian.

The ceasefire has had a positive impact on financial markets, with India’s equity markets rising by 2.5% and Pakistan’s benchmark index jumping 9%, leading to a temporary halt in trading. However, political tensions persist, with India’s opposition Congress party calling for a special parliamentary session to discuss the situation, particularly regarding U.S. involvement and the Kashmir issue.

The situation remains fluid, and the outcome of the military officials’ discussions will be closely watched as both nations navigate the complexities of regional security and diplomatic relations.

Source: Reuters