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 temporary truce between Iran and the United States has been established, effective immediately, with the condition that Iran permits maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz for two weeks. This agreement follows over a month of coordinated strikes by the US and Israel against Iranian targets, and it comes shortly after US President Donald Trump issued a dire warning about the potential consequences of Iran blocking the vital oil passage.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, acting as a key mediator, announced the ceasefire’s activation early on Wednesday. The deal hinges on Iran’s commitment to reopening the Strait of Hormuz, which is crucial for Gulf oil exports. Trump stated that the suspension of attacks would last for two weeks if Tehran complies with this condition, emphasizing that “military objectives have already been met and surpassed.”

“We have already met and exceeded all Military objectives,” Trump remarked in a post on Truth Social, framing the pause as a strategic move to secure progress.

In response, Iran unveiled a 10-point proposal outlining broader terms, including halting hostilities in four regions—Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, and Yemen—and committing to the removal of sanctions. The plan also demands the release of frozen US-held Iranian assets and the full payment of compensation for reconstruction efforts. Additionally, Iran pledged not to pursue nuclear weapons, a significant concession in ongoing diplomatic talks.

The Iranian Supreme National Security Council emphasized that this ceasefire would strengthen its political standing, stating that “Iran’s victory in the field would also be consolidated in political negotiations.” However, tensions remain high, as Israel has not formally agreed to halt operations in Lebanon, where its forces are currently stationed. The Israeli leadership insists it will withdraw only after eliminating the Hezbollah threat.

Hours after the announcement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated support for the ceasefire but clarified that it does not extend to Lebanon. “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 said. Yet, the lack of Israeli agreement on Lebanon raises questions about the deal’s scope.

Sirens blared in Israel shortly after Trump’s declaration, with the Defense Forces confirming missile interceptions from Iranian territory. Loud explosions were reported in Jerusalem late Tuesday, underscoring the immediate military activity despite the proposed pause. The involvement of Netanyahu in shaping the agreement remains unclear, though his endorsement highlights the alliance’s significance.

Pakistan has invited the parties to meet in Islamabad on Friday to advance toward a definitive resolution. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt noted that in-person discussions are underway but stressed no terms are finalized until the President or White House announces them. Negotiations are expected to be complex, given the diverging interpretations of the ceasefire’s implications from both sides. The recent talks mark the second round of discussions this year, with tensions flaring mid-deal each time.