In the early hours of May 10, 2025, the Indian Army held a crucial press briefing to address the escalating tensions with India-Pakistan. This development comes in the wake of recent cross-border strikes and a series of retaliatory actions that have heightened the stakes between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. The briefing aimed to inform the public about India’s strategic stance, military preparedness, and commitment to maintaining regional stability.
Table of Contents
India-Pakistan Live: The Genesis of Escalation
The current conflict traces back to a devastating terrorist attack on April 22, 2025, in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 Hindu pilgrims. India attributed the attack to Pakistan-based terrorist groups, leading to the launch of “Operation Sindoor” on May 7. This operation targeted multiple terrorist camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, aiming to dismantle the infrastructure supporting cross-border terrorism. The precision strikes reportedly resulted in significant casualties among terrorist operatives, including close aides of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar.
Pakistan’s Retaliation and India’s Defense
In response to Operation Sindoor, Pakistan initiated “Operation Bunyan Ul Marsoos,” targeting Indian military installations. The retaliatory strikes led to civilian casualties and infrastructural damage on both sides. India’s air defense systems, including the S-400 and Akash missile systems, were activated to intercept incoming threats, successfully neutralizing several Pakistani drones and missiles. The Indian Army’s prompt response underscored its readiness to defend national sovereignty and protect its citizens.
The Indian Army’s Press Briefing: Key Takeaways
- Provocative Actions by Pakistan: The Army highlighted Pakistan’s attempts to target Indian airbases in Punjab, labeling these actions as provocative and escalatory. India emphasized its right to self-defense and reiterated its commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity.
- Misinformation Campaigns: Addressing allegations of damage to religious sites in Pakistan, the Army categorically denied such claims, asserting that India’s operations were solely aimed at neutralizing terrorist threats. Colonel Sofiya Qureshi stated, “India is a secular nation, and our operations are directed against terrorism, not religion.”
- Ceasefire Agreement: The briefing confirmed that both India and Pakistan had agreed to a ceasefire, effective from 5 PM on May 10. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced the cessation of all military actions on land, air, and sea, emphasizing India’s preference for peace but readiness to respond if provoked.
International Mediation and Diplomatic Efforts
The United States played a pivotal role in mediating the ceasefire between India and Pakistan. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in discussions with both Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, urging restraint and dialogue. The ceasefire agreement was also supported by diplomatic efforts from Saudi Arabia and Turkey. U.S. President Donald Trump announced the ceasefire on social media, commending both nations for their decision to halt hostilities.
Humanitarian Impact and Civilian Response
The conflict resulted in significant civilian casualties and displacement. In Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistani shelling led to the death of Rajouri’s Additional District Development Commissioner Raj Kumar Thapa. The Indian government announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹10 lakh to the families of those who lost their lives due to the shelling. Civilians in border areas faced disruptions, with schools closed and emergency services on high alert.
The Road Ahead: Vigilance and Diplomacy
While the ceasefire brings temporary relief, the underlying tensions between India and Pakistan remain unresolved. India has reiterated its commitment to combating terrorism and maintaining regional peace. The Indian Army remains vigilant, prepared to respond to any future provocations. Diplomatic channels are expected to remain active, with follow-up talks scheduled to ensure the ceasefire holds and to address the root causes of the conflict.
FAQs
Q1: What prompted the recent India-Pakistan conflict?
The conflict was triggered by a terrorist attack on April 22, 2025, in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 Hindu pilgrims. India attributed the attack to Pakistan-based terrorist groups, leading to retaliatory strikes under “Operation Sindoor.”
Q2: What measures have been taken to de-escalate the situation?
A ceasefire agreement was brokered through diplomatic efforts led by the United States, with support from Saudi Arabia and Turkey. Both India and Pakistan agreed to halt all military actions from 5 PM on May 10, 2025.
