Pakistan Violates Ceasefire in Poonch

In a significant escalation along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistani troops violated the ceasefire agreement by initiating unprovoked firing in the Poonch sector for the first time. This incident occurred during the night of April 27-28, 2025, marking the fourth consecutive night of ceasefire violations by Pakistan across various sectors of the LoC, including Kupwara and Poonch districts.

The Indian Army responded swiftly and effectively to the firing, ensuring no casualties were reported on the Indian side. The exchange of fire followed a recent terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed 26 lives and was linked to a Pakistan-based terror group. This attack has severely strained Indo-Pak relations, leading India to take stringent measures such as suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, expelling Pakistani military attachés, and shutting down the Attari land-transit post.

Background and Current Situation

The ceasefire agreement along the LoC, established to maintain peace between India and Pakistan, has been repeatedly violated in recent times. The Poonch sector, known for its strategic significance, witnessed targeted firing by Pakistani troops, a departure from previous patterns of sporadic violations elsewhere along the LoC. Indian forces have maintained a controlled and calibrated response to these provocations, emphasizing their commitment to peace while safeguarding territorial integrity.

Despite diplomatic efforts, including Brigade Commander-level flag meetings earlier in April 2025, ceasefire violations have persisted. The Indian Army continues to monitor the situation closely, conducting surveillance and ambush operations to prevent infiltration and maintain dominance along the LoC.

What Could Happen If Pakistan and India Enter Full-Faced War?

A full-scale war between India and Pakistan would have profound consequences, not only for the two nations but for regional and global stability. Both countries are nuclear-armed, which raises the stakes significantly.

Human and Economic Cost: A full war would lead to massive loss of life, displacement of civilians, and destruction of infrastructure on both sides. The economic impact would be devastating, disrupting trade, agriculture, and industry.
Regional Instability: The conflict could destabilize South Asia, affecting neighboring countries and potentially drawing in global powers with strategic interests in the region.
Nuclear Risk: The presence of nuclear weapons increases the risk of escalation to a nuclear conflict, which would have catastrophic humanitarian and environmental consequences worldwide.
International Diplomatic Pressure: The global community would likely intervene diplomatically to de-escalate tensions, but the effectiveness of such efforts would depend on the willingness of both nations to engage in dialogue.
Long-Term Impact on Peace: Even after the cessation of hostilities, deep-seated mistrust and animosity could hamper peace efforts for decades.

While the recent ceasefire violations and retaliatory actions heighten tensions, it is crucial to understand that both India and Pakistan have historically sought to avoid full-scale war due to the catastrophic risks involved. The ongoing skirmishes and diplomatic moves reflect a complex interplay of security concerns, political posturing, and attempts to assert control over disputed territories.

The situation underscores the importance of sustained dialogue, confidence-building measures, and adherence to existing agreements to prevent escalation. Both nations, along with international stakeholders, have a shared interest in maintaining peace and stability in the region.

This recent ceasefire violation in Poonch is a reminder of the fragile peace along the LoC and the urgent need for renewed efforts toward conflict resolution. While the Indian Army's effective response demonstrates readiness and resolve, the broader goal remains to avoid conflict and foster lasting peace between India and Pakistan.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies