In a dramatic turn of events, U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that India and Pakistan have agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire, following a night of intense diplomatic negotiations.
The announcement came via a post on the Truth Social platform, ending a high-stakes military escalation that had pushed South Asia to the brink of war.
“After a long night of talks mediated by the United States, I am pleased to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a FULL AND IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE,” wrote President Trump. “Congratulations to both countries on using common sense and great intelligence.”
Indian missile strikes on Pakistan
The recent tensions erupted when Indian armed forces launched coordinated air-to-ground missile strikes targeting Pakistan Air Force installations at Nur Khan Airbase (Rawalpindi), Mureed Base (Chakwal), and Shorkot Airbase. The attacks reportedly caused minor structural damage but no casualties, thanks to the swift interception by Pakistan’s advanced air defense systems.
In a late-night press conference, DG ISPR Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry confirmed the Indian aggression and assured the nation:
“Most of the incoming missiles were successfully intercepted. All major PAF assets remain intact. Our response will be decisive, and the enemy will face the consequences.”
Operation “Bunyan-un-Marsus”
Within hours, Pakistan retaliated with a multi-pronged military operation dubbed “Operation Bunyan-un-Marsus,” targeting at least 26 strategic Indian military installations across northern India. According to security and military sources, the operation marked one of the most extensive precision-strike campaigns conducted by Pakistan in recent history.
In addition, Indian artillery positions in Dehrangyari were reportedly destroyed. Independent Indian media also confirmed the death of a senior Indian administrative officer in Rajouri during the attacks.
Airspace closures and civilian disruptions
As a result of the escalating situation, Pakistan closed its airspace for all commercial and private flights until noon Saturday. Flights from Islamabad International Airport were halted, with passengers and airlines left in limbo. The closure followed explosions in Rawalpindi and Lahore, with two loud blasts reported near the Nur Khan Airbase, triggering emergency lockdowns and security responses.
Pakistan warns of economic targeting if provoked again
In a high-level security meeting chaired by Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership, it was agreed that any further provocation from India would lead to strikes on high-value economic targets inside Indian territory.
“If India moves again, the consequences will be serious and far-reaching,” warned a joint statement released by the office of the Prime Minister and the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
Global reactions and diplomatic efforts
The United States played a key role in brokering the ceasefire, according to diplomatic sources in Washington and Islamabad. The rapid deterioration of the situation had alarmed world capitals, prompting the UN Secretary-General, Chinese Foreign Ministry, and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to issue urgent calls for restraint.
President Trump’s intervention has been acknowledged by both Islamabad and New Delhi as a crucial diplomatic success in averting a full-scale regional conflict between two nuclear-armed neighbors.
