Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Ishaq Dar has confirmed that the ceasefire between Pakistan and India, brokered by the United States, has been extended until May 18. The extension follows multiple rounds of hotline discussions between Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) Major General Kashif Abdullah and his Indian counterpart, Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai.
During a Senate session, DPM Dar, who also oversees foreign affairs, explained the timeline of the discussions. The first contact on May 10 led to an initial ceasefire extension to May 12. Subsequent calls on May 12 and May 14 extended the agreement to May 18.
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On May 10, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio informed Ishaq Dar that India is ready to consider a ceasefire. Responding to the offer, Dar stated that while Pakistan had not initiated the confrontation, it was ready to agree to the ceasefire if India was willing. He emphasized that they will now discuss all matters at the dialogue table, focusing on fostering peace in the region.
The escalation began on May 7, when Indian strikes in Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir resulted in the loss of at least 31 civilian lives. Pakistan retaliated with its Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, targeting Indian military infrastructure with precision-guided long-range Fatah missiles and air force munitions. The Pakistan Army and Air Force successfully downed multiple Indian assets, including fighter jets and drones.
US President Donald Trump announced the ceasefire on Saturday, attributing its success to unwavering leadership on both sides and the United States’ role in mediation. He highlighted trade as a factor in bringing both nations to the table, underscoring ongoing negotiations with both Pakistan and India.
Addressing the Senate, DPM Dar stressed that Pakistan never sought a ceasefire from any external party and remains committed to regional peace while defending its sovereignty. He lauded the armed forces for countering India’s aggressive actions and reiterated that the international community rejected India’s narrative about the conflict.
Ishaq Dar made it clear that critical issues, such as the Indus Waters Treaty, are non-negotiable for Pakistan. He stated that India cannot unilaterally alter this treaty and that dialogues with India would address all matters comprehensively.
The DPM assured that Pakistan prioritizes peace in the region but remains firm against any attempts to undermine its autonomy or territorial integrity. With global attention on the region, we will negotiate with India to ensure mutual respect and achieve a comprehensive resolution.
