India and Pakistan exchanged blame for ceasefire violations just hours after declaring an agreement to end days of cross-border hostilities, marking their most serious confrontation in decades.

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said there had been “repeated violations” of the newly announced understanding, following reports of explosions in Indian-administered Kashmir. 

He described the breaches as “a clear violation” of the deal and confirmed India’s military was “responding appropriately.”

Shortly after, Pakistan’s foreign ministry responded, saying it remained committed to “faithful implementation” of the ceasefire, despite “violations being committed by India in some areas.” 

The ministry urged both sides to maintain communication and for troops to show restraint on the ground.

The recent escalation began after India launched strikes on targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, following a deadly militant attack in Pahalgam last month. Pakistan denied involvement in the incident.

The ceasefire agreement, brokered with support from the United States, was confirmed Saturday by US President Donald Trump and later by both governments. 

Pakistan’s foreign minister acknowledged that “three dozen countries” had played a role in securing the truce.

Despite the declaration, residents and journalists in Srinagar and Jammu reported hearing fresh explosions and seeing flashes in the sky late Saturday.

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed the ceasefire deal, emphasizing India’s “firm stance against terrorism.” Meanwhile, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the truce was reached “for the benefit of all.”

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that both nations had agreed to begin broader dialogue at a neutral venue. 

The ceasefire comes after weeks of heightened tensions and significant civilian casualties on both sides of the Line of Control.

Source: BBC

SMS/