Despite India and Pakistan agreeing to a ceasefire on Saturday after several days of intense conflict, the Indus Waters Treaty between the two nations remains suspended, according to four government sources.
The 1960 treaty regulates the sharing of water from the Indus River and its tributaries between the South Asian nations. India pulled out of it last month after a deadly attack on tourists in Kashmir.
India, Pakistan Agree To Ceasefire
In a major development following four days of escalating conflict, India and Pakistan on Saturday evening agreed to a “full and immediate” ceasefire, which covers hostilities across land, sea, and air.
U.S. President Donald Trump made the announcement first, and later it was confirmed by both India’s Ministry of External Affairs and Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the ceasefire.
According to India, the truce was formalised after a Saturday afternoon call from Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations to his Indian counterpart, with the ceasefire taking effect at 5 p.m. IST.
Ceasefire After DMGO-Level Talks
India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri told the media, “Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) called the 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.”
“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,” Misri said.
Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar tweeted, “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.”
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, tweeted: “Pakistan and India have agreed to a ceasefire with immediate effect. Pakistan has always strived for peace and security in the region, without compromising on its sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
(With inputs from Reuters)
