Introduction
The ceasefire between India and Pakistan has been extended until May 18, with the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) from both sides scheduled to meet soon to review the situation along the border. This development follows an intense period of conflict that included cross-border strikes and heightened military alertness.
Background to the Ceasefire Extension
On May 10, after days of drone and missile strikes between the two countries, India and Pakistan agreed to cease all firing on land, air, and sea. However, violations of the agreement occurred shortly after its enactment. The extension aims to continue confidence-building measures to gradually reduce alertness along the Line of Control (LoC) and border areas.
The Indian Army stated, “Further to the understanding between the two DGMOs on 10th May 2025, it has been decided to continue the confidence-building measures so as to reduce the alertness level.”
Operation Sindoor and Its Role
The ceasefire follows India’s Operation Sindoor — a precision strike campaign launched on the night of May 7-8 targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. Operation Sindoor showcased India’s military precision and strong stance against cross-border terrorism.
Diplomatic and Water Treaty Developments
Alongside military action, India suspended the decades-old Indus Water Treaty due to ongoing terrorism concerns. Pakistan urged India to reconsider this suspension, warning of severe internal consequences. India, however, insists the treaty will remain in abeyance until terrorism is stopped credibly and irrevocably.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized this stance, stating, “Water and blood cannot flow together,” highlighting that while a ceasefire is in place, diplomatic measures like the treaty suspension remain until Pakistan’s actions change.
Pakistan’s Offer for Dialogue
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has extended an offer for peace talks, expressing readiness to engage with India. However, India’s official position maintains that dialogue will not progress without credible steps to halt terror activities originating from Pakistan.
Looking Ahead: DGMO Talks and Border Stability
The upcoming DGMO talks are expected to assess the ceasefire’s implementation and discuss further steps to stabilize the border. Both countries are under international pressure to maintain peace and prevent escalation. These talks could pave the way for a more sustained reduction in military tensions if positive outcomes are reached.
Conclusion
The extension of the India-Pakistan ceasefire till May 18 and the scheduled DGMO discussions reflect a cautious but hopeful step towards easing border tensions after a tumultuous few weeks. While the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty and firm military responses continue to underline the seriousness of India’s stance, dialogue remains a critical avenue for future peace efforts.
For more on India-Pakistan relations and updates on Operation Sindoor, visit our dedicated coverage page.
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