Washington: In a significant last-minute diplomatic breakthrough, the United States has paused military strikes on Iran after President Donald Trump agreed to a two-week ceasefire proposal with Tehran, officials said. The move comes amid heightened tensions following weeks of US-Israeli military action.
The ceasefire proposal, reportedly facilitated by Pakistan, includes the reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz — a key maritime corridor through which nearly one-fifth of the world’s energy supplies pass during peacetime.
Iran confirmed its acceptance of the proposal, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stating that Tehran would suspend its “defensive operations” for the duration of the ceasefire, provided that the United States and Israel halt their attacks. He added that Iranian forces would oversee vessel movement through the Strait during this period, while maintaining operational control over the passage.
Iran outlines conditions, claims upper hand
Tehran has projected the ceasefire as a diplomatic victory, asserting that Washington has effectively accepted elements of its 10-point framework. In a statement, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council said the proposal includes recognition of Iran’s nuclear enrichment programme, the lifting of primary and secondary sanctions, and continued Iranian control over the Strait of Hormuz.
The framework also calls for the withdrawal of US forces from the Middle East, cessation of hostilities against Iran and its regional allies, release of frozen Iranian assets, and a binding resolution at the United Nations Security Council to formalise any agreement under international law.
Notably, the plan envisages expanded Iranian authority over the Strait, which has faced severe disruptions since the onset of the five-week conflict triggered by US-Israeli strikes on February 28.
Trump cites “workable” proposal
In a statement, Trump said he had received a “workable” ceasefire proposal and agreed to suspend military action following consultations with Shehbaz Sharif and Asim Munir, who urged restraint.
“Subject to Iran agreeing to the complete, immediate, and safe opening of the Strait of Hormuz, I have agreed to suspend bombing for a period of two weeks. This will be a double-sided ceasefire,” Trump said.
He added that the US had already “met and exceeded” its military objectives and indicated that negotiations were at an advanced stage toward a long-term peace agreement with Iran.
Trump further stated that most contentious issues between Washington and Tehran had been addressed, and the temporary ceasefire would provide a window to finalise a comprehensive deal aimed at ensuring stability in the Middle East.