What we know about the two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran
US and Iran Enter Conditional Ceasefire Agreement
Iran and the United States have reached a tentative two-week pause in hostilities, with the key condition being the resumption of oil and cargo passage through the Strait of Hormuz. This agreement follows a synchronized series of strikes by the US and Israel on Iranian targets, and comes after President Donald Trump issued a stark warning that Iran would face “a whole civilisation will die tonight” if it did not comply with the demand to reopen the vital waterway.
Immediate Effect and Mediation Role
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, acting as a key intermediary, announced the ceasefire’s effectiveness as of early Wednesday. The agreement allows for the temporary halt of military actions against Iran, contingent on Tehran’s commitment to clear the Strait of Hormuz. However, the deal does not extend to Lebanon, where Israeli forces remain engaged with the Iran-aligned militant group Hezbollah.
“We have already met and exceeded all Military objectives,” Trump stated in a post on Truth Social, framing the suspension of attacks as a strategic pause rather than a complete halt.
Iran’s Conditions and Strategic Goals
Iran has accepted the temporary ceasefire, agreeing to coordinate the movement of vessels through the Hormuz Strait for two weeks. In exchange, the country has outlined a 10-point proposal, which includes ending hostilities in four regions: Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, and Yemen. It also demands the removal of economic sanctions, the return of frozen assets held by the US, and full reimbursement for reconstruction costs. Additionally, Iran vows to “not seek possession of any nuclear weapons” as part of the deal.
“Iran’s victory in the field would also be consolidated in political negotiations,” declared the Supreme National Security Council in a formal statement, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic resolution alongside military gains.
Uncertainty Over Implementation
Despite the agreement, Israeli leaders have not confirmed their participation in the ceasefire. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated support for Trump’s decision but clarified that the pause does not cover Lebanon, where Israeli ground troops are still active. The statement noted that Iran must “immediately open the straits and stop all attacks on the US, Israel, and countries in the region,” leaving room for continued operations elsewhere.
Hours after the ceasefire was announced, Israeli forces reported intercepting missiles launched from Iran, with sirens ringing in the country. In Jerusalem, several loud booms were heard late Tuesday, underscoring the ongoing tension. The White House has confirmed ongoing discussions for in-person talks, though nothing is finalized until the President or press secretary formally declares it.
While the ceasefire provides a brief reprieve, disagreements persist between the US and Iran on its scope. Both nations have previously engaged in two rounds of negotiations this year, only to see military clashes intensify during the process. The upcoming talks in Islamabad aim to address lingering disputes, but the path to a lasting resolution remains uncertain.
