On 8 April, United States and Iran have agreed to a conditional two week ceasefire, easing tensions after more than a month of conflict.
The truce allows ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global route for oil and trade.
How the deal came about
The agreement follows weeks of fighting involving the US, Israel, and Iran. It came shortly after US President Donald Trump warned of severe consequences if Iran did not reopen the strait.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who has been mediating, said the ceasefire took effect immediately.
What both sides have said
Trump said the US would “suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks” if Iran allows safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. He also said the US had already achieved its military objectives and signalled possible discussions on tariffs and sanctions relief.
Iran confirmed it would allow vessels through the strait for two weeks, with movements coordinated by its military. At the same time, Iran outlined wider demands, including lifting sanctions, releasing frozen funds, and compensation for damages. It also stated it does not intend to pursue nuclear weapons.
Where Israel stands
Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel supports the pause in strikes, but made clear that it is ready to resume military action if needed. Israel also stated that the ceasefire does not include Lebanon, where fighting involving Hezbollah is ongoing.
What is happening on the ground
Despite the announcement, reports suggest that some attacks have continued in parts of the region. Kuwait said it intercepted drones targeting key infrastructure, while tensions remain high in several areas.
What happens next
Pakistan has invited both sides to continue talks in Islamabad to try and reach a longer term agreement. However, differences between the US and Iran remain, and previous negotiations have broken down amid renewed fighting.
Several countries, including France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Canada, have welcomed the ceasefire and called for a lasting end to the conflict.
The ceasefire offers a short pause in fighting, but it remains uncertain whether it will lead to a longer term solution, as tensions in the region continue.
Photo: Iranian demonstrators chant slogans while holding Iranian flags and a poster of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei during a gathering at Enqelab-e-Eslami (Islamic Revolution) Square in Tehran. The demonstration followed the announcement of a two-week ceasefire in the conflict with the United States and Israel. Photo Credits: AP Photo
