U.S. and Saudi Arabia Key to India-Pakistan Ceasefire, Global Reactions Pour In

U.S. and Saudi Arabia Key to India-Pakistan Ceasefire, Global Reactions Pour In
The ceasefire between India and Pakistan, effective from May 10, 2025, has restored calm along the Line of Control (LoC), with the United States and Saudi Arabia playing critical roles in its mediation. As the truce holds on May 11, global leaders have voiced support, reflecting hope for lasting peace in a region scarred by recent violence.

U.S. and Saudi Mediation

U.S. President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio spearheaded diplomatic efforts, engaging Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to de-escalate tensions sparked by India’s Operation Sindoor. Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Adel Al-Jubeir complemented these efforts, leveraging the kingdom’s strong ties with both nations. Al-Jubeir’s visit to Islamabad and New Delhi facilitated the DGMO-level talks between India’s Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai and Pakistan’s Major General Kashif Abdullah, culminating in the ceasefire at 5 p.m. IST. Despite initial Pakistani drone violations, the truce stabilized by May 11, with no firing reported.

Global Leaders’ Reactions

The international community welcomed the ceasefire. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy called it “hugely welcome,” urging both nations to pursue dialogue. Qatar’s Foreign Ministry praised the “wisdom” of Indian and Pakistani leaders, while the UAE expressed hope for regional stability. The European Union, through spokesperson Peter Stano, commended the de-escalation, emphasizing the need for sustained peace. China, a key Pakistani ally, supported the truce, with Foreign Minister Wang Yi advocating for restraint. Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered mediation, reflecting Ankara’s interest in South Asian stability. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated calls for diplomacy, noting the ceasefire’s potential to avert a nuclear flashpoint.

Significance of the Truce

The ceasefire follows a volatile period marked by the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which killed 26, and India’s retaliatory strikes, met with Pakistani drone attacks. The truce has lifted blackouts in Punjab and eased fears in Jammu and Kashmir, though security forces remain vigilant. Further talks are scheduled for May 12 to solidify the agreement.