A U.S.-brokered ceasefire between India and Pakistan collapsed within hours of its implementation on Saturday, as fresh explosions and artillery fire erupted across the volatile Jammu and Kashmir region. The agreement, intended to de-escalate some of the worst fighting between the two nuclear-armed nations in nearly three decades, took effect at 5 p.m. local time — but proved short-lived.

Residents and local officials reported renewed hostilities almost immediately, with both sides trading accusations of violating the truce.

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri blamed Pakistan for breaching the agreement, stating, “Our armed forces have been instructed to respond firmly to any provocation.” He urged Islamabad to “demonstrate seriousness and responsibility” by preventing further violations.

Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry pushed back, denying the allegations and accusing India of initiating the renewed clashes. “Our forces are exercising restraint. We urge the Indian side to honour its commitments and resolve matters through established channels,” the ministry said.

The ceasefire, reached after days of back-channel negotiations mediated by the United States, followed a dramatic escalation in hostilities involving airstrikes, artillery shelling, and drone deployments. The conflict has already claimed at least 66 civilian lives, with widespread blackouts and air defence activity reported in border towns.

Amid concerns over a possible nuclear confrontation, Pakistan’s military initially suggested a meeting of its nuclear command was imminent. However, the country’s defence minister later denied such plans, easing fears of immediate escalation.

Earlier on Saturday, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar had hailed the ceasefire as a step toward regional stability, writing on social media, “Pakistan has always stood for peace and security in South Asia, while firmly safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

The truce came after direct talks between the top military commanders of both nations, facilitated by U.S. officials.

U.S. President Donald Trump, who played a key role in securing the agreement, took to Truth Social to praise the breakthrough:
“After a long night of talks mediated by the United States, I am pleased to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a FULL AND IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE. Congratulations to both Countries on using Common Sense and Great Intelligence.”

With tensions still high and the ceasefire unraveling, the international community remains on alert for further developments.