Pakistan and India agree to shift troops to peacetime positions

The Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of Pakistan and India engaged in discussions to advance the current ceasefire agreement and begin reducing the heavy troop deployments along the Line of Control and international border, gradually reverting to peacetime positions.

According to a report by The News, the two sides recently communicated via the military hotline. These engagements, however, have been kept discreet and away from media attention, as both countries explore the next steps toward de-escalation.

The talks were focused on transitioning the ceasefire into a new phase, with an emphasis on confidence-building and the quiet repositioning of troops away from the frontlines. 

The move signals a rare moment of mutual trust between the two militaries, offering a potential breather from longstanding tensions.

A senior government official, quoted by The News, described the troop pullback as the "second phase" of the ceasefire process, which was initially brokered with support from the United States and other regional partners.

Read: DG ISPR warns India of 'brutal response' in case of ceasefire violation

It is worth noting that the US administration, including President Donald Trump, has expressed interest in facilitating dialogue between both countries to prevent future military conflict.

The military conflict started between the nuclear-armed neighbors following India's military assault on Pakistani civilians on May 6 and 7.

Earlier, Trump announced that Pakistan and India have agreed to a "full and immediate" ceasefire under US mediation.

"After a long night of talks mediated by the United States, I am pleased to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire," he said. "Congratulations to both countries on using common sense and great intelligence. Thank you for your attention to this matter."

Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed on May 12 that the ceasefire agreement in an interview had been in place since 4:30 pm.