India and Pakistan Agree to Immediate Ceasefire After Four Days of Escalation

India and Pakistan have agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire following four days of intense cross-border strikes and mounting casualties. The breakthrough was announced Saturday by U.S. President Donald Trump, who said the agreement came after a night of U.S.-mediated talks between the two nuclear-armed nations.

“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,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social. “Congratulations to both countries on using common sense and great intelligence.”

The ceasefire is set to take effect at 5 p.m. Indian time (1130 GMT), according to India’s Ministry of External Affairs. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister also confirmed the agreement and its immediate implementation.

The announcement comes after a sharp escalation in hostilities that began earlier this week, following India’s strikes on what it called “terrorist infrastructure” in Pakistan. In retaliation, Pakistan launched a series of air and missile attacks on Indian military positions, prompting further counter-strikes from New Delhi.

Since Wednesday, at least 66 people have been killed, including both military personnel and civilians on both sides of the Line of Control and deeper within their respective territories. The violence had raised international fears of a broader conflict, including potential nuclear escalation.

As part of the ceasefire arrangement, senior military officers from both countries are expected to hold follow-up talks on May 12 to reinforce communication lines and monitor compliance with the agreement.

International observers and diplomats have welcomed the ceasefire as a vital step back from the brink, while urging both sides to pursue longer-term dialogue to resolve core disputes — especially the volatile issue of Kashmir.