What we know about the two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran
Iran and US Agree to Two-Week Ceasefire with Conditions
A two-week ceasefire, subject to certain conditions, has been brokered between Iran and the United States. The agreement allows for uninterrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for Gulf oil exports. This follows a month of coordinated strikes by the US and Israel on Iranian targets and Trump’s prior warning that “a whole civilisation will die tonight” if Iran did not reopen the strait.
Immediate Effect and Conditions
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, acting as a mediator, confirmed the ceasefire’s start on Wednesday. According to his statement, the pause in hostilities takes effect immediately. The deal hinges on Iran’s commitment to open the Hormuz Strait and halt attacks on the US, Israel, and regional nations.
“We have achieved and surpassed all military objectives,” Trump stated on Truth Social, justifying the temporary halt to strikes. His earlier threat to eliminate Iran “in one night” had sparked global concern, with the UN Secretary-General and Pope expressing disapproval.
Iran’s 10-Point Plan
Iran has outlined a 10-point proposal, including the cessation of conflict in Iraq, Lebanon, Yemen, and Syria. The plan also demands the removal of sanctions, release of frozen assets, and full compensation for reconstruction costs. Additionally, it asserts Iran’s dedication to avoiding nuclear weapon acquisition.
“Iran’s victory in the field would also be consolidated in political negotiations,” declared Tehran’s Supreme National Security Council, underscoring the strategic significance of the agreement.
Lebanon’s Role and Israel’s Stance
While the ceasefire applies to the Gulf region, Israel has not agreed to pause operations in Lebanon. The country maintains its presence with ground troops, targeting the Iran-backed Hezbollah. Despite this, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu endorsed Trump’s decision, stating, “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.”
Sirens were heard in Israel shortly after the announcement, with the military reporting missile intercepts from Iranian territory. In Jerusalem, several loud explosions occurred late Tuesday, hinting at ongoing tensions. However, the ceasefire remains in effect as of now, pending further negotiations.
Upcoming Talks and Uncertainties
巴基斯坦 has invited the parties to meet in Islamabad on Friday for talks aimed at finalizing a comprehensive agreement. The White House press secretary noted discussions about in-person meetings but emphasized no terms are official until the President or White House announces them.
Despite the agreement, diverging views between the US and Iran persist. The two nations have exchanged two rounds of negotiations this year, both concluding with heightened military activity. The upcoming talks will test whether these differences can be reconciled.
