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
A two-week ceasefire has been arranged between Iran and the United States, conditional on Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz for oil and other goods exports. This follows coordinated strikes by the US and Israel on Iran over a month prior, with US President Donald Trump issuing a stark warning hours before the agreement. “A whole civilisation will die tonight, never to be brought back again,” Trump declared on Truth Social, threatening military action unless Iran complied.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, mediating the talks, announced the ceasefire would take effect immediately. The deal hinges on Iran’s agreement to allow shipping through the critical waterway, a move Trump accepted in exchange for meeting military goals. “We have already met and exceeded all military objectives,” he stated, framing the truce as a strategic pause rather than a full halt.
Iran’s Conditions for the Ceasefire
Iran’s response included a 10-point plan, emphasizing its commitment to ceasing hostilities in four key regions: Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, and Yemen. The plan also demands the lifting of sanctions, release of frozen assets, and full compensation for reconstruction costs. Additionally, Iran pledged not to pursue nuclear weapons, a point highlighted in a statement from its Supreme National Security Council.
“Iran’s victory in the field would also be consolidated in political negotiations,” the council said.
Israel, however, has not fully endorsed the ceasefire. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated support for Trump’s decision but clarified it does not cover Lebanon, where Israeli forces remain engaged. “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 added, while noting the ongoing conflict in Lebanon.
Shortly after the ceasefire was announced, sirens echoed across Israel as the Defense Forces intercepted missiles from Iran. Loud booms were reported in Jerusalem late Tuesday, underscoring the immediate tension. Despite the pause, Israel’s military operations continue, with no indication of a broader agreement.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed discussions for in-person talks, though no final decision has been made. The negotiations face challenges, as both nations hold divergent views on the ceasefire’s scope. Earlier this year, they had two rounds of discussions, both interrupted by rising military tensions. The path to a lasting resolution remains uncertain.
