What we know about the two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran
What we know about the two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran
Iran and the United States have reached a temporary agreement to pause hostilities for two weeks, with the condition that Iran allows unrestricted maritime movement through the Strait of Hormuz. This development follows coordinated strikes by the U.S. and Israel against Iranian targets more than a month prior, and occurs just hours after President Donald Trump issued a warning about potential military action.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, acting as a key mediator, announced the ceasefire’s immediate effect. The deal hinges on Iran’s commitment to reopening the strategic waterway, which is crucial for oil exports from the Gulf. Trump stated that the U.S. would halt bombing Iran for two weeks if Tehran agreed to this move, claiming that “military objectives have been met and surpassed.”
Iran’s 10-Point Plan
The Iranian government outlined a comprehensive 10-point proposal, including a cessation of hostilities in its regional conflicts with Iraq, Lebanon, and Yemen. It also demands the lifting of sanctions, the return of frozen assets, and full compensation for reconstruction costs. Additionally, Iran pledged to “not pursue nuclear weapon acquisition,” according to a statement from its Supreme National Security Council.
“Iran’s victory in the field would also be consolidated in political negotiations,” the council added.
However, the ceasefire does not extend to Lebanon, where Israeli forces remain engaged with the Iran-backed Hezbollah group. Israel’s leadership has reiterated its stance that operations in the region will continue until Hezbollah’s threat is neutralized. No official confirmation yet exists that Israel has accepted this limitation.
Israel’s Position and Regional Implications
Shortly after the agreement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed support for Trump’s decision, emphasizing that the ceasefire is contingent on Iran’s actions. He stated, “Israel backs the suspension of strikes against Iran for two weeks, provided the straits are opened and all attacks on the U.S., Israel, and regional nations cease.” Yet, the statement clarified that the ceasefire does not cover Lebanon, where Israeli ground troops are stationed.
Sirens and missile interceptions were reported in Israel following Trump’s announcement, with loud booms heard in Jerusalem late Tuesday. These events highlight the ongoing tension despite the truce. The exact role of Netanyahu in the negotiations remains unclear, though his endorsement underscores the deal’s significance for regional stability.
Path Forward and Challenges
Pakistan has invited the parties to convene in Islamabad on Friday to continue talks toward a definitive resolution. The White House confirmed discussions are underway for in-person meetings but noted no official conclusion has been reached. The agreement’s success will depend on resolving conflicting interpretations of its terms, as both nations have previously faced escalating tensions during negotiations.
