Pakistan Breaches Ceasefire for 11th Straight Day, Indian Army Responds Firmly

For the 11th consecutive night, Pakistani troops violated the ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir, engaging in unprovoked small-arms fire across eight sectors, including Kupwara, Baramulla, Poonch, Rajauri, Mendhar, Naushera, Sunderbani, and Akhnoor. The Indian Army responded swiftly and proportionately, maintaining control of forward posts with no reported casualties on its side. This persistent aggression, which began hours after India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty on April 24, follows the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians, intensifying India-Pakistan tensions.

Context of the Violations
The ceasefire breaches mark a significant strain on the 2021 ceasefire agreement, which had reduced hostilities along the 740-km LoC until recent events. The Pahalgam attack, attributed to Pakistan-backed terrorists, prompted India to adopt retaliatory measures, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and closing the Attari border crossing. Pakistan’s nightly firing, often targeting multiple sectors simultaneously, suggests an intent to escalate, possibly to test India’s resolve or distract from domestic pressures. Indian officials note that these violations, while limited to small arms, risk further destabilizing the region if unchecked.

Indian Army’s Robust Response
The Indian Army has maintained a calibrated and effective response, ensuring minimal civilian impact while countering Pakistani provocations. Forward-deployed troops in sectors like Kupwara and Akhnoor have retaliated with precision, reinforcing India’s defensive posture. Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi recently reviewed security in Srinanagar, signaling heightened alertness. Despite diplomatic efforts, including hotline talks between the Directors General of Military Operations on April 29, Pakistan’s continued violations indicate a reluctance to de-escalate, prompting India to explore further military and diplomatic options.

11th Night of Pakistani Ceasefire Violation

The ongoing clashes threaten the fragile peace along the LoC, with the potential to escalate beyond small-arms fire. Local communities in border villages face risks from stray shells, disrupting livelihoods. Internationally, the U.S. has urged both nations to de-escalate, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio calling for cooperation against terrorism.