In a significant diplomatic development, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister announced on Saturday that the nation is open to de-escalation if India refrains from further military actions. This promising agreement, facilitated by key regional players Saudi Arabia and Turkey, took effect at 4:30 PM local time and has led to the full reopening of Pakistan’s airspace for all flight operations.
Commitment to peace from both nations
Indian Wing Commander Vyomika Singh addressed a press conference in New Delhi, emphasizing her country’s commitment to “non-escalation, provided the Pakistan side reciprocates.” This statement reflects a mutual desire for peace amid ongoing tensions.
“Congratulations to both Countries on using Common Sense and Great Intelligence. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”
This remark from US President Donald Trump, posted on his Truth Social platform, underscores international support for the ceasefire. However, the backdrop to this agreement includes disturbing reports of violence; a Pakistani official stated that at least 11 individuals were killed and 56 injured due to what he described as Indian shelling near the Line of Control in Kashmir.
Recent escalation in Kashmir conflict
Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, indicated that the country acted in response to missile strikes carried out by India on various locations, including air bases. India has denied targeting civilian areas in these attacks.
In a separate incident, gunmen opened fire on tourists at the Pahalgam resort in Indian-controlled Kashmir on April 22, resulting in the deaths of 26 individuals and injuries to 17 more. This attack, attributed to a group named Kashmir Resistance—believed to be supported by Pakistan—marks a troubling escalation in a regional conflict that has historically been characterized by relatively few civilian casualties.
The latest confrontations represent yet another chapter in the long-standing and complex dispute over the Kashmir region, a conflict that dates back to the violent partition of India in 1947.