Tensions between the two countries had escalated sharply after the Indian Armed Forces conducted strikes on terror launchpads in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) last week in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people, mostly tourists.In the ensuing retaliation and cross-border exchanges that began on May 7, at least 27 people, including five security personnel, were killed and many others injured in intense shelling and drone attacks from the Pakistani side.Despite the ceasefire agreement, dozens of drones were reportedly seen flying over the Kashmir Valley on Saturday evening, in violation of the accord. However, no drone activity was reported overnight.In the days leading up to the ceasefire, a series of blasts had rocked Jammu city and other major towns, including areas near the International Border, adding to the region’s anxiety. The understanding reached on May 10 to halt all hostilities brought a fragile but welcome calm after four days of intense cross-border drone and missile strikes.As an uneasy calm prevails along the borders, authorities and residents alike remain cautiously hopeful that the truce will hold and allow the region to move toward lasting peace.
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