A conditional two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran has been announced, with both sides aiming to ease tensions and restore limited maritime activity in the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
The development follows more than a month of escalating conflict, during which coordinated military strikes by the United States and Israel targeted Iranian positions.
The ceasefire comes amid mounting international pressure and fears of a broader regional crisis.
US President Donald Trump confirmed the agreement, stating that Washington would suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks, on the condition that Tehran reopens the critical shipping route.
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital artery for global oil supplies, and disruptions there have raised concerns about energy security worldwide.
In a post shared on social media platforms, Trump said the decision to pause military operations was based on the administration’s assessment .
“We have already met and exceeded all Military objectives, “said President Trump .
However, his earlier remarks warning that the US could take Iran out in one night and that a whole civilisation will die and never to be brought back again drew sharp criticism from global leaders, including the United Nations Secretary-General and the Pope.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who has been facilitating mediation efforts, announced that the ceasefire took effect immediately on Wednesday morning.
His involvement highlights growing diplomatic efforts from regional and international actors to prevent further escalation.
As part of the arrangement, Iran has agreed to allow vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz for the duration of the ceasefire.
The movement of ships will be coordinated by Iranian military authorities, a measure likely intended to maintain oversight while avoiding further confrontation.
Tehran has also outlined a broader set of conditions in a 10-point proposal tied to the ceasefire.
These include a complete halt to military activity not only within Iran but also across Iraq, Lebanon and Yemen.
Additionally, Iran is calling for a full commitment to lifting economic sanctions, the release of frozen Iranian assets held abroad, and full payment of compensation for reconstruction costs.
While the temporary truce offers a window for de-escalation, analysts caution that the conditions attached by both sides indicate significant gaps remain.
The coming two weeks are expected to test whether diplomatic engagement can translate into a more durable agreement or whether hostilities could resume once the pause expires.
For now, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz may provide some relief to global markets and reduce immediate tensions in the Gulf, even as the broader conflict remains unresolved.
