India-Pak ceasefire preceded by Trump's claim, reports of de-escalation

After four days of rising cross-border tensions, that have led to casualties on both sides, India and Pakistan reached a ceasefire.

In a special briefing on Operation Sindoor on Saturday (May 10), Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced the move. "Pakistan's Directors General of Military Operations (DGMO) called Indian DGMO at 15:35 hours earlier this afternoon. It was agreed between them that both sides would stop all firing and military action on land and in the air and sea with effect from 1700 hours Indian Standard Time," he said.

"Today, instructions have been given on both sides to give effect to this understanding. The Directors General of Military Operations will talk again on the 12th of May at 1200 hours."

Trump's claim

Earlier in the evening, US President Donald Trump claimed that his administration mediated the ceasefire. "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," he announced in a post on Truth Social, his social media platform.

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"Congratulations to both Countries on using Common Sense and Great Intelligence. Thank you for your attention to this matter!" Trump added.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Pakistan Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Pakistan Army chief Gen Asim Munir, it was stated. Rubio made a similar statement on X.

'Direct talks'

However, an ANI report said the stoppage of firing and military action between India and Pakistan was worked out directly between the two countries.

"The Pak DGMO initiated the call this afternoon after which discussions took place and understanding reached. There is no decision to hold talks on any other issue at any other place," it said.

Jaishankar, on his X handle, did not mention the American mediation either. "India and Pakistan have today worked out an understanding on stoppage of firing and military action. India has consistently maintained a firm and uncompromising stance against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. It will continue to do so," he said.

Earlier de-escalation moves

On Saturday morning, reports about a possible de-escalation began to float in. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar said Islamabad is open to de-escalation if India stops its military operations.

Speaking to Geo News, Dar said: “If they stop here, we will also consider stopping.” He insisted that Pakistan’s military response had thus far been defensive and proportionate, though the country was prepared to escalate if necessary.

"Pakistan had no choice but to retaliate to India’s military actions,” Dar claimed, adding it would “not let India claim hegemony.”

Meanwhile, Pakistan Information Minister Atta Tarar said de-escalation was in India's hands. “It is in the hands of India. If they de-escalate (we will follow),” Tarar told BBC.

India’s response

Indian officials have defended their actions as measured and provoked by Pakistan’s attacks.

Misri said in a briefing in the morning India only acted after provocative strikes by Pakistani military targeting Indian civil and military infrastructure and described Pakistan’s claims of heavy damage as false.