India and Pakistan Halt Hostilities: Behind the Ceasefire

India and Pakistan agreed to halt military operations on May 10 after direct conversations between their military directors. The move, initiated by Pakistan, followed India's achievement of its key military objectives. The decision was independent of foreign mediation, though diplomatic discussions were held, including with the US.

On May 10, India and Pakistan reached an agreement to halt military operations after direct communications between the Director Generals of Military Operations from both nations. This development, as per the Indian government, was initiated by the Pakistani side.

Speculation arose whether US interference influenced the ceasefire just three days after India gained an upper hand in military operations against Pakistan. However, Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, clarified in the Lok Sabha that the decision was part of India's focused and non-escalatory approach.

Between the Pahalgam terrorist attack on April 22 and the ceasefire on May 10, India engaged in numerous diplomatic discussions globally, including with the US. However, India maintained that any lingering issues with Pakistan would only be addressed through bilateral talks, excluding third-party mediation.

(With inputs from agencies.)