Some details are clouded by contradictory statements and disinformation. But a pattern of rapid escalation brought the conflict to the brink of catastrophe.

A tense silence settled over India and Pakistan as millions woke Thursday: no more missiles had been fired, schools in most areas had reopened and both sides appeared to be claiming victory.

Hundreds of villagers evacuated their homes as India and Pakistan targeted each other's military installations with missiles and drones. Many returned to find their homes destroyed or roofless.

The move comes amid rising public sentiment against Turkiye and Azerbaijan following their expressions of support for Pakistan after India's recent military operation, 'Operation Sindoor'.

A series of military strikes last week by India and Pakistan brought the nuclear-armed rivals closer to a broader war.

The recent sparks of war between India and Pakistan, apart from the long-standing Kashmir issue, have brought renewed attention to Chinese weapons,

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed there were no radiation leaks from any nuclear facilities in Pakistan amid the recent military escalation with India. This clarification follows speculation linking India’s Operation Sindoor to potential nuclear site strikes near Kirana Hills.

The ceasefire had been expected to bring a swift end to weeks of escalating clashes triggered by the mass shooting of tourists last month that India blames on Pakistan.

New developments in the nuclear powers’ harrowing four-day conflict, along with entrenched religious nationalism on each side, could signal more frequent battles ahead.