Ceasefire Questioned as Explosions Rock Srinagar Hours After Agreement
Shortly after the India-Pakistan ceasefire announcement Saturday evening, multiple explosions were heard across Srinagar, prompting J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to question its validity on social media, stating, "This is no ceasefire. The air defence units in the middle of Srinagar just opened up." Earlier Saturday morning, a missile-like object landed in Dal Lake following loud explosions, highlighting the volatile situation and fragility of the newly agreed cessation of hostilities even as official confirmations were being made.
Unpacked:
The immediate trigger was a terrorist attack in Pakistan-administered Kashmir on April 22, which India alleged was backed by Pakistan. This led to India's retaliatory "Operation Sindoor." Both sides exchanged accusations of military strikes, escalating tensions before the ceasefire was announced.
The ceasefire was primarily brokered through bilateral talks between Indian and Pakistani officials, but the United States played a significant role in facilitating discussions. Other international actors, including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Qatar, the UK, UN, and China, also assisted in brokering the truce.
Concerns stem from immediate reports of explosions and possible ceasefire violations in Srinagar, even as leaders announced the agreement. These incidents raise doubts about both sides' commitment and the ceasefire's enforceability, especially given the history of fragile truces in the region.
Ceasefires in Kashmir have a long, troubled history. Both countries have agreed to several ceasefires since 1947, but most have been marred by frequent violations, mutual mistrust, and the unresolved status of Kashmir, which both nations claim but control only in part.