A Pakistani official announced on Tuesday that both India and Pakistan have agreed to withdraw the military reinforcements that were deployed to the border amidst a recent conflict. He stated that “the military will return to a pre-competitive position by the end of May.” This information came from a source speaking anonymously due to a lack of permission for public disclosure.
As per the source, the two nations have settled on a “phased withdrawal” of troops and artillery from the informal border, known primarily as the Control Lines of Disputed Areas (LOCs) in Kashmir. There was significant tension on April 22, following terrorist attacks that nearly sparked war between the two countries. In response, India escalated its actions against what it termed terrorist camps in Pakistan, pushing for a temporary ceasefire after about five days of heightened conflict.
Indian officials indicated that both sides are looking to quickly withdraw reinforcements from the LOC, aiming to minimize the risk of further incidents and maintain the ceasefire. A Pakistani official, as cited by AFP, mentioned that the de-escalation process is underway.
“These steps were initially planned to be completed within ten days, though minor delays have held things up,” the official added. A report from Pakistan’s Express Tribune stated that the withdrawal agreement came about through the latest communications between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both countries.
The two sides are said to be cautiously beginning their withdrawal without any official announcements from either government. Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh remarked that military operations against terrorists in Pakistan were merely “suspended,” emphasizing that Pakistan remains on “probation” to avoid further attacks.
He further noted that if Pakistan’s behavior does not improve, they will face serious consequences. Singh described the recent military action as just a preview, asserting that when the time is right, India will reveal its full strategy against terrorist camps in Pakistan—referred to as Operation Sindoor.
According to military sources in Pakistan, Islamabad has chosen to disregard the provocative nature of Singh’s comments and is still committed to the ceasefire. They believe that, based on high-level DGMO discussions, there is a shared interest in maintaining a ceasefire. However, serious negotiations for enduring peace between the countries have yet to begin in earnest.
