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

Pakistan's army said on Tuesday that more than 50 people were killed in last week's military clashes with India which ended in a ceasefire agreed by the nuclear-armed neighbours, restoring peace to their border.

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.