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
Following recent developments, the United States and Iran have reached a conditional agreement for a two-week pause in hostilities. This decision allows for uninterrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for oil and other Gulf exports. The accord comes nearly a month after coordinated strikes by the US and Israel targeted Iranian assets, and shortly after President Donald Trump issued a stark warning about potential consequences if Iran did not reopen the strait.
Mediating the talks, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed that the ceasefire took effect immediately on Wednesday. He highlighted the agreement as a step toward resolving tensions, though details remain fluid. According to Trump, the suspension of attacks depends on Iran’s commitment to open the strait, which he claimed the country had already achieved and surpassed all military objectives.
Iran’s Commitments Under the Ceasefire
The Iranian side has outlined a 10-point plan as part of the deal. This includes halting hostilities in key regions such as Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, and Yemen. Additionally, Iran pledged to lift economic sanctions, release frozen assets held by the US, and provide full compensation for reconstruction costs. A notable clause also states that Iran will not pursue nuclear weapon development.
“Iran fully commits to not seeking possession of any nuclear weapons,” declared Tehran’s Supreme National Security Council in a formal statement.
Israel, however, has not fully aligned with the terms. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed support for the two-week ceasefire but clarified that it does not extend to Lebanon, where his country maintains ground forces. He emphasized that Iran must stop attacks on the US and regional nations to ensure the deal’s success.
Regional Tensions and Immediate Reactions
Hours after the agreement was announced, sirens echoed across Israel as the Defense Forces intercepted missiles launched from Iranian territory. Loud explosions were reported in Jerusalem late Tuesday night, underscoring the ongoing military activity. Despite this, the ceasefire appears to hold for now, though its effectiveness in Lebanon remains uncertain.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt mentioned that in-person negotiations are being considered but stressed that no final decision has been made. The talks, which have already occurred twice this year, face challenges as both sides hold differing views on the scope of the truce. The process is expected to continue in Islamabad on Friday, with Pakistan aiming to facilitate a lasting resolution.
