The fragile truce between India and Pakistan appeared to be largely holding on its first full day after some initial skirmishing. Both countries turned on Sunday to making the case that they had emerged victorious in the four-day conflict.
President Trump announced on Saturday that the two sides had agreed to a cease-fire with the assistance of U.S. mediation. This development halted a military confrontation that had involved drones, missiles, and intense shelling, escalating with strikes on military bases in both nations.
Following the cease-fire announcement, Mr. Trump praised both sides for their “strength, wisdom, and fortitude” in stopping the aggression that could have resulted in significant loss of life and destruction. He also indicated plans to increase trade with both countries and to work towards a resolution of the long-standing dispute over the Kashmir region.
Pakistan, which has seen its status as a U.S. ally diminish over time, commended the American role in mediation. In contrast, the Indian government has historically maintained that its relations with Pakistan are strictly bilateral. Following the cease-fire announcement, India emphasized that it had negotiated directly with Pakistani officials without acknowledging any American involvement.
On Sunday, a senior Indian official provided a timeline of the conflict, highlighting ongoing discussions with American officials while asserting that India made its own decisions. India conveyed a consistent message during talks with U.S. officials, stating it would respond to every Pakistani attack with a counterattack.
After Pakistan launched drone strikes into India early on Saturday, Indian forces targeted key military bases in Pakistan. Subsequently, Pakistan expressed a willingness to engage in talks, leading to the agreement to cease hostilities.
Supporters of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government characterized the truce as a victory for India, claiming that Pakistan was compelled to seek a cease-fire due to the strength of the Indian armed forces. The Indian Air Force noted on social media that it executed its mission with “precision and professionalism.”
In India, triumphant sentiments were reflected in memes and billboards celebrating the military's efforts. Some officials indicated that India's actions during the conflict demonstrated a tougher stance on terrorism under Modi's leadership, particularly following a terrorist attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that resulted in civilian casualties.
Conversely, in Pakistan, many viewed the end of the confrontation as a victory for their country and military. Reports included footage of civilians celebrating and honoring soldiers in Sialkot, a city with a history of military conflicts with India. Prominent columnist Nadeem Farooq Paracha remarked on the public's newfound confidence, suggesting that Pakistan had successfully withstood a significant Indian offensive.
Political analyst Sabir Shah noted that the Pakistan Air Force had demonstrated operational superiority, with claims of downing five Indian planes, while India has not officially acknowledged any losses, although evidence suggests at least two were lost.
As both nations assessed their respective gains and losses, uncertainty remained regarding the cease-fire's durability. Reports of cross-border shelling emerged soon after the cease-fire was declared, although the situation appeared calm by Sunday night.
Sajad Shafi, a local politician in the Indian border town of Uri, described Sunday as “peaceful” but urged caution among civilians eager to return home. He advised them to remain in relief camps, stating, “You can’t trust this cease-fire. You never know what is next.”