What we know about the two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran
US-Iran Ceasefire: Key Details and Regional Reactions
Following a tense standoff, the United States and Iran have reached a conditional agreement for a two-week pause in hostilities. This arrangement permits uninterrupted maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical corridor for oil exports from the Gulf. The deal follows a coordinated attack by the US and Israel on Iran nearly a month prior, and comes shortly after President Donald Trump issued a dire warning that “a whole civilisation will die tonight” if Iran did not reopen the strait.
Pakistan Mediates the Agreement
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, acting as a mediator, confirmed the ceasefire would take effect immediately. The agreement hinges on Iran’s commitment to clear the Hormuz Strait, with military coordination to ensure safe passage for vessels. Sharif emphasized the urgency of the deal, stating it was finalized early Wednesday.
“We have already met and exceeded all Military objectives,”
Trump stated on Truth Social, framing the pause as a strategic decision. The US leader had previously warned that the country could “take Iran out in one night,” a threat that sparked global backlash, including criticism from the UN Secretary-General and Pope Francis.
Iran’s 10-Point Plan
In exchange for the ceasefire, Iran has outlined a 10-point proposal. Among its demands: halting hostilities in Iraq, Lebanon, Yemen, and Syria; lifting economic sanctions; releasing frozen US-held assets; and compensating for reconstruction costs. The plan also includes a pledge to “not seek possession of any nuclear weapons,” according to Tehran’s Supreme National Security Council.
“Iran’s victory in the field would also be consolidated in political negotiations,”
the Iranian council added, signaling a shift from military dominance to diplomatic engagement.
Israel’s Position and Immediate Reactions
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed support for the ceasefire, but clarified it does not extend to Lebanon. “Israel supports President Trump’s decision to suspend strikes against Iran for two weeks subject to Iran immediately opening the straits and stopping all attacks on the US, Israel and countries in the region,” he stated. However, Israel maintains its military operations in Lebanon, where it has ground troops, as it seeks to eliminate Hezbollah threats.
Hours after the ceasefire was announced, sirens echoed across Israel as the Defense Forces reported intercepting missiles launched from Iran. Loud explosions in Jerusalem late Tuesday night underscored the ongoing risks. Despite the pause, tensions remain high, with Israel’s actions in Lebanon continuing unabated.
Uncertain Path Forward
Pakistan has invited the US and Iranian delegations to Islamabad for further talks on Friday, aiming to finalize the agreement. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt noted discussions about in-person meetings but stressed that no terms are official until the President or White House announces them.
The ceasefire’s terms have already sparked disagreements between the US and Iran. Despite two rounds of talks in the past year, both sides have clashed over the scope of the deal, with military tensions rising during negotiations. The path to a lasting resolution remains unclear, as conflicting priorities persist.
