The North News
New Delhi, May 12
India’s strike on Pakistan’s Nur Khan Airbase — located perilously close to the headquarters of its nuclear command — has emerged as the pivotal moment in the recent military confrontation between the two countries, sparking alarm in Islamabad and prompting an urgent appeal to Washington for mediation.
The Indian airstrike, confirmed by Air Marshal AK Bharti during a military briefing on Monday, reportedly caused damage to sensitive facilities near the Strategic Plans Division — the body that oversees Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal. Sources suggest that the attack triggered panic among Pakistan’s top military brass, with reports indicating that even the Pakistan’s Army Chief sought refuge in underground bunkers.
In the wake of the strike, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif convened a meeting of the National Command Authority on Saturday to assess the damage and coordinate response measures. The move followed a series of retaliatory Indian air raids on Pakistani military installations after a missile strike launched from Islamabad.
The spectre of escalation brought international players into the fray. Despite earlier remarks by US Vice President JD Vance on May 9 insisting that the conflict was “none of our business,” Washington pivoted sharply within 24 hours. President Donald Trump announced on May 10 that a ceasefire had been brokered after what he described as “a long night of talks.”
“India and Pakistan have agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire,” Trump said in a brief address. “Congratulations to both countries on using common sense and great intelligence.”
The shift in US posture surprised many observers, especially after Vance’s firm stance against American involvement. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, standing alongside Vance, praised the outcome. “We commend Prime Ministers Modi and Sharif for their statesmanship in choosing the path of peace,” he said. Talks are expected to resume on 12 May at a neutral location.
However, optimism was short-lived. Within hours of the agreement coming into effect at 5pm IST on Saturday, India accused Pakistan of violating the ceasefire. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, in a late-night media briefing, condemned the breach as “extremely condemnable” and warned of consequences.
“Our forces remain on high alert,” Misri said. “Any further violations along the border or the LoC will be met with an immediate and forceful response.”
Indian officials have dismissed claims of third-party pressure to end hostilities, saying it was Pakistan that initiated the ceasefire request. Islamabad, however, publicly thanked Washington for its role.
