Pakistan’s military has voiced confidence that the ceasefire agreement with India will remain in place, emphasizing that direct communication through a military hotline continues to play a critical role in easing tensions.
In an interview with a US-based media outlet, Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, underscored the value of ongoing dialogue between senior officials on both sides of the border.
“Hotline Is Operational and Active”
“We expect the ceasefire between Pakistan and India to remain intact,” Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif stated. “The hotline between both sides is operational.”
He confirmed that senior officers from Pakistan and India remain in contact through this dedicated line. This continuous communication, he said, serves as a vital tool in maintaining stability and avoiding misunderstandings along the Line of Control (LoC).
Tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors recently spiked after four days of missile and aerial exchanges. However, the use of the military hotline helped prevent further escalation.
“The hotline communication helped control the situation after the initial exchange,” Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif explained. “Senior officials from both sides stayed in touch and discussed necessary steps to de-escalate.”
Read: Senior Hamas Official Denies Agreement on Two-Month Truce
Pakistan Shared Details of Losses
The DG ISPR also highlighted Pakistan’s transparency in reporting damages.
“We’ve been transparent about the human and material losses caused by Indian attacks,” he said. “We hope India has shown the same openness.”
While he didn’t provide specific numbers, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif stressed that such openness fosters trust and accountability, both of which are essential for maintaining peace along the border.
Pakistan and India reaffirmed the 2003 ceasefire agreement in February 2021, which significantly reduced cross-border firing and shelling incidents. Since then, both countries have largely respected the truce, although occasional flare-ups do occur.
Peace Hinges on Dialogue
Military experts say the hotline is not just a communication tool—it is a buffer against rapid escalation. Regular contact between senior officers helps clarify movements and intentions, which can otherwise be misread in high-tension environments.
Officials also believe that such direct military-to-military engagement can support broader diplomatic efforts between Islamabad and New Delhi.
Public Sentiment Remains Cautious
While the military expresses hope, public sentiment remains cautious. Many in both countries view the ceasefire as fragile due to unresolved political and territorial issues, especially over Kashmir.
Still, the DG ISPR’s message reflects a desire for continued calm and responsible engagement.
