In response to the deteriorating situation, on March 24, 1972, the British government, led by Prime Minister Edward Heath, suspended the Northern Ireland Parliament (also known as Stormont) and imposed Direct Rule. This meant that the British government assumed responsibility for governing Northern Ireland, with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland taking on this role.

The imposition of Direct Rule was intended as a temporary measure to restore order and stability in the region. However, it lasted for 26 years, until the Good Friday Agreement was signed in 1998. This peace agreement established a new power-sharing government in Northern Ireland, which marked the end of Direct Rule and the beginning of a new era of devolved government in the region.

The Troubles continued throughout the period of Direct Rule, with various attempts at peace negotiations taking place. The Good Friday Agreement, brokered with the help of international mediators, was a significant turning point in Northern Ireland's history, as it brought an end to the large-scale violence and paved the way for a more stable and peaceful future.