In a significant development, India and Pakistan have agreed to a conditional ceasefire following escalating tensions sparked by the Pahalgam terror attack. Despite this temporary truce, India maintains its suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, signaling a firm stance on national security concerns.Wikipedia+5The New Indian Express+5Wikipedia+5The New Indian Express+3Wikipedia+3Wikipedia+3 India-Pakistan Ceasefire: Operation Sindoor and the Future of the Indus Waters Treaty
Operation Sindoor: A Decisive Response
The ceasefire comes in the aftermath of India’s Operation Sindoor, a swift military campaign targeting terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This operation was launched in response to the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which claimed 26 lives, including 25 tourists. India attributed the attack to Pakistan-based militant groups.New York Post+1The New Indian Express+1New York Post+2Wikipedia+2The Sun+2
Operation Sindoor involved precision strikes using Rafale jets equipped with SCALP and HAMMER missiles, resulting in the elimination of over 100 terrorists, including high-profile figures like Rauf Azhar, associated with the IC-814 hijacking and the Daniel Pearl case. The operation lasted approximately 23 minutes and was executed with minimal collateral damage.Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1New York Post+2Wikipedia+2EFE+2
Conditional Ceasefire: A Cautious Step Forward
The ceasefire, brokered with international mediation, including efforts by the United States, is described as “conditional.” India has emphasized that any future aggression or cross-border terrorism will nullify the agreement. While Pakistan has reopened its airspace, India remains vigilant, keeping several border airports on high alert.AP NewsThe Guardian+2Latest news & breaking headlines+2AP News+2
High-level military communications preceded the ceasefire, with both nations’ top military officials engaging in dialogue to prevent further escalation. However, trust remains fragile, and the situation is being closely monitored by the international community.
Indus Waters Treaty: Suspension Amidst Tensions
Despite the ceasefire, India continues to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, a water-sharing agreement signed in 1960. The suspension followed the Pahalgam attack, with India citing national security concerns and accusing Pakistan of supporting terrorism.Latest news & breaking headlines+6Wikipedia+6The New Indian Express+6
The suspension has led to significant reductions in water flow to Pakistan, particularly through the Chenab River, with reports of a 90% drop in water supply. India has also initiated new hydroelectric projects on the western rivers, actions previously restricted under the treaty.Wikipedia
Pakistan has expressed serious concerns over these developments, warning that any attempt to disrupt water flow could be considered an act of war. The World Bank, a signatory to the treaty, has stated its limited role, emphasizing that its function is primarily that of a facilitator.Wikipedia
Regional and International Reactions
The ceasefire has elicited mixed reactions. In Pakistan, there have been public celebrations, while in India, particularly in conflict-affected areas like Srinagar, anxiety persists. International actors, including the U.S., G7, and China, have urged both nations to pursue peaceful resolutions and avoid further confrontation.AP News+1The Guardian+1
Humanitarian organizations have raised concerns over civilian casualties resulting from the recent hostilities, emphasizing the need for continued diplomatic engagement to ensure sustainable peace.The Guardian+1Wikipedia+1
Conclusion
The conditional ceasefire between India and Pakistan marks a tentative step towards de-escalation. However, the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and ongoing mistrust highlight the fragility of this peace. Sustained diplomatic efforts and mutual restraint are essential to prevent further conflict and ensure long-term stability in the region.
For more detailed information, refer to the original NDTV article: Operation Sindoor: India-Pakistan Ceasefire.