Agreement Follows Four Days of Escalation After Operation Sindoor
New Delhi, May 11 — The recent understanding between India and Pakistan to cease all military actions across land, air, and sea has been hailed by defence experts as a significant triumph for the Indian armed forces. The development follows days of intense cross-border drone and missile strikes that brought the two nations to the brink of full-scale war.Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed on Saturday that the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) from both countries reached this consensus during a telephonic conversation. The next round of discussions is scheduled for May 12 at noon.
The ceasefire was announced shortly after US President Donald Trump claimed in a social media post that the agreement was “mediated” by the United States. However, top Indian government sources later clarified that the outcome was the result of direct India-Pakistan engagement, with Islamabad agreeing without any preconditions or linkages to other issues.
Strategic Experts Laud Indian Leadership and Military Preparedness
Strategic affairs expert Maj Gen P K Sehgal (retd) described the development as a “very good beginning” for both nations. He emphasized that India has successfully demonstrated decisive leadership, advanced defence capabilities, and an unparalleled level of coordination across its military and governmental institutions.“Over the last 11 years, India has significantly strengthened its air defence and enhanced the professionalism of the Army. The integration between the Army, Navy, and Air Force was immaculate, while the ministries of defence, external affairs, and home affairs worked in outstanding synergy,” he said.
Maj Gen Sehgal also highlighted that India’s actions before and during Operation Sindoor had globally isolated Pakistan. “The Indian armed forces have emerged as guardians of the country’s sovereignty and integrity,” he added, expressing confidence that Pakistan would not dare initiate hostilities again.
Concerns Remain Over Pakistan’s Long-Term Intentions
Col Anil Bhat (retd), speaking from Mumbai, noted that while the understanding might include assurances from Pakistan to curtail terrorist activities, the country’s historical track record raises questions about future compliance.“We hope the Pakistani military establishment has learnt its lesson. But if they attempt to reopen hostilities, the response will be stronger,” he warned.
Brig Vijay Sagar Dheman (retd) speculated that the United States may have exerted pressure on Pakistan to avert further escalation. He pointed out that the understanding appears to be limited to kinetic operations, with restrictions in cyber, economic, and water domains still in place.
Kargil Veteran and Government Officials Applaud Ceasefire
Brig Khushal Thakur (retd), a decorated officer from the 1999 Kargil conflict, expressed joy over the cessation of hostilities and attributed the outcome to India’s unwavering zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism.“This is a victory for Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, our armed forces, our diplomacy, and our firm stand against terrorism,” he said.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reiterated India's position, stating, “India has consistently maintained a firm and uncompromising stance against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. It will continue to do so.”
Background: Operation Sindoor and Rising Tensions
Tensions escalated sharply after the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The operation was conducted in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which had clear cross-border linkages and claimed 26 lives, mostly of tourists.The ceasefire agreement has brought temporary relief, but analysts remain cautious about its long-term sustainability, urging continued vigilance and strategic preparedness.