Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has extended an offer to engage in peace talks with India, stating, “We are ready to talk with it for peace.” This declaration was made during his visit to the Kamra air base in Punjab province, where he interacted with military personnel involved in the recent confrontations with India. Sharif’s comments come in the wake of a U.S.-mediated ceasefire, following the most severe military conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbors in nearly three decades.
The latest escalation was triggered by a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, which resulted in the deaths of 27 individuals, including 25 Hindu tourists. India attributed the attack to Pakistan-based militants, leading to a series of retaliatory strikes. India’s Operation Sindoor targeted what it described as terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan, while Pakistan’s Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos responded with missile strikes on Indian military installations. The confrontations resulted in significant casualties and heightened tensions along the Line of Control.
The ceasefire, brokered by the United States, was announced on May 10, with both nations agreeing to halt military actions across land, air, and sea. Despite the agreement, sporadic violations have been reported, with each side accusing the other of breaches. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that India’s military actions were only “paused” and warned of future retaliation if another terrorist attack occurs. He reiterated that any dialogue with Pakistan would focus solely on terrorism and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, stating, “Terror and talks can’t go together.”
Sharif’s recent overture is not his first call for dialogue. In February, he expressed a desire to resolve all issues, including Kashmir, through talks, urging India to move past its 2019 stance following the revocation of Article 370. He reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for Kashmiri self-determination according to United Nations resolutions.
The international community has welcomed the ceasefire and Sharif’s call for dialogue. The United Nations, United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, and other nations have expressed support for the cessation of hostilities and encouraged sustained diplomatic engagement to address longstanding disputes. U.S. President Donald Trump praised the leadership of both countries and offered to significantly increase trade with both nations as an incentive for lasting peace.
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