• Ceasefire reached: India and Pakistan have agreed to a halt in fighting after back-and-forth strikes deepened fears of a wider conflict. Officials from both countries said the ceasefire is now in effect, but blasts were heard in India-administered Kashmir hours after the announcement.
• Overnight diplomacy: US President Donald Trump made the surprise ceasefire announcement after what he said was a night of talks mediated by Washington, spurred by the US receiving alarming intelligence. An Indian source downplayed US involvement, while Pakistan’s prime minister praised Washington’s role in the talks.
• Kashmir massacre: Heightened tension between the neighboring states was sparked by a massacre of tourists last month in Indian-controlled Kashmir. India blamed Pakistan for the attack and launched “Operation Sindoor” Wednesday in both Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Islamabad has denied involvement in the killings.
• A history of war: Hindu-majority India and Muslim-majority Pakistan each control parts of Kashmir but claim it in full and have fought three wars over the territory.
