India-Pakistan Ceasefire: Latest Developments, International Responses

The Line of Control (LoC) that separates India and Pakistan has long been a flashpoint for tension between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. While the 2021 agreement to uphold a India Pakistan Ceasefire brought a temporary calm, recent escalations—including alleged drone incursions, cross-border shelling, and verbal sparring—have reignited concerns of conflict. This article covers the latest ceasefire developments, government statements from both sides, and responses from global powers.

Background: A Fragile Ceasefire

In February 2021, India and Pakistan agreed to strictly observe all ceasefire agreements along the LoC. This was seen as a major diplomatic breakthrough after years of frequent cross-border firing. However, since early May 2025, fresh incidents have raised questions over the durability of this peace.

The Night of Escalation: Drone Incursions Reported

According to the Pakistan Armed Forces’ media wing (ISPR), on the night of May 9–10, 2025, a significant airspace violation occurred. Pakistani officials claim that 24 drones, allegedly Israeli-made and launched from Indian territory, entered their airspace in multiple regions of Punjab and Sindh.

Pakistani Military Response

The Pakistan Air Force (PAF), in coordination with ground forces, claims to have:

Shot down 18 drones near Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, and Dera Ghazi Khan.
Recovered drone debris, reportedly bearing technical components traced back to Israeli manufacturers.
Initiated high-level diplomatic protests with both New Delhi and Tel Aviv.

India’s Official Stand

India’s Ministry of External Affairs has categorically denied launching any drone activity into Pakistani airspace. A spokesperson stated:

“India remains committed to the 2021 ceasefire understanding. No violation has occurred from our side.”

However, Indian media outlets such as The Times of India and India Today suggested the possibility of independent rogue activity or misinformation from Pakistan’s end.

Pakistan’s Accusation Against Israel

In a surprising turn, Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari addressed a press briefing, alleging that the drones were of Israeli origin and possibly supplied to India as part of a new defense partnership.

“The debris and recovered hardware show clear signs of Israeli-manufactured surveillance and attack drones.” — Foreign Minister Bhutto Zardari

This accusation has not been independently verified. Israel has yet to comment officially, though some Israeli defense experts have dismissed the claim as “strategic deflection.”

Ground Situation: Shelling at LOC

In addition to the drone episode, sporadic shelling has been reported in sectors near Uri, Poonch, and Neelum Valley. Local civilians have been evacuated, and both countries have increased troop presence near sensitive border areas.

Casualty Report

Pakistan: 4 injured, 2 civilian casualties
India: 3 injured soldiers, no civilian death confirmed

Statements from Military and ISPR

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) in Pakistan issued a strong warning:

“Any act of aggression will be met with full force. Our forces remain on high alert to defend the territorial sovereignty of Pakistan.”

India’s Army Chief also held a media briefing, emphasizing restraint but warning of counteraction in case of further violations.

International Responses

UAE and Saudi Arabia

Both Gulf countries have called for “maximum restraint” and have offered to mediate if tensions escalate. The UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a brief:

“India and Pakistan must uphold the ceasefire agreement and pursue peace through dialogue.”

United Kingdom

British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly stated:

“We are monitoring the situation closely. The UK urges both nations to resolve disputes through diplomatic means.”

United Nations

UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern, urging immediate steps to prevent further escalation. A special UN envoy has reportedly been briefed by both missions.

Indian Media Reactions

While official statements deny drone involvement, Indian media is divided:

Republic TV labeled the drone claim as “Pakistani propaganda.”
The Hindu suggested independent verification before jumping to conclusions.
Defense analyst Ajai Shukla called for “de-escalation before miscalculation leads to war.”

Pakistan’s Next Moves

According to Dawn News:

Pakistan may raise the issue at the UN General Assembly.
The Pakistani Foreign Office is drafting a letter to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding Israeli arms use.

In an editorial, Dawn emphasized:

“Peace must remain the priority, but sovereignty cannot be compromised.”

Strategic Implications

This ceasefire tension has regional implications:

China, a close ally of Pakistan, has advised calm.
Afghanistan warned about indirect consequences on border security.
Iran expressed concern about destabilization along its eastern border.

What’s Next?

While both sides publicly claim commitment to peace, troop movements and diplomatic protests suggest an uneasy calm. Observers worry that a single misfire or misjudged act could push the region toward a full-blown conflict.

Ceasefire Holding… But For How Long?

Experts from BBC and CNN stress that despite the rhetoric, both India and Pakistan seem to be walking a tightrope. Until there is independent verification of claims—particularly the drone incident—the situation remains tense but under control.

Conclusion

The alleged drone intrusions, ongoing shelling, and international concerns highlight the fragile nature of the India-Pakistan ceasefire. Both governments must now move from rhetoric to responsible diplomacy. The world watches closely, hoping that war rhetoric does not overtake reason.