US and Iran Agree to 2-Week Ceasefire as War Threat Eases
The United States and Iran have agreed to a two-week ceasefire, dramatically easing tensions after weeks of intense military confrontation that had pushed the region to the brink of a wider war.
The deal was reached just an hour before a deadline set by Donald Trump, who had threatened massive strikes on Iran if key demands were not met.
Strait of Hormuz Reopened
A central condition of the agreement is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil routes.
Iran had earlier shut down the waterway in retaliation for sustained attacks by the United States and Israel.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that the strait would remain open for two weeks, allowing safe passage for global oil shipments.
“If attacks against Iran are halted, our powerful armed forces will cease their defensive operations,” Araghchi said.
Pakistan Emerges as Key Mediator
The breakthrough came after intervention by Pakistan, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif playing a crucial diplomatic role.
Trump revealed that Pakistani leaders urged him to delay a planned large-scale strike, paving the way for negotiations set to begin Friday in Pakistan.
Sharif confirmed that the ceasefire would take effect immediately, raising hopes for a broader peace deal.
Heavy Strikes Before Deadline
Despite the agreement, the hours leading up to the deadline saw intense military action.
Forces from the United States and Israel launched strikes targeting infrastructure, including bridges and railways in Iranian cities such as Qom.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the attacks were aimed at weakening Iran’s military capabilities.
Iran responded with drone and missile strikes across Gulf states, causing casualties and widespread fear in countries including Qatar, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia.
Civilian Impact and Rising Fear
The conflict has taken a heavy toll on civilians across the region.
Reports indicate:
- Over 1,500 deaths in Lebanon
- Civilian casualties in Iraq
- Injuries in Gulf states from missile debris
In Tehran, residents described widespread fear, with one student saying, “I feel terrified, and so should everyone else.”
Even religious sites were affected, with Israel acknowledging damage to a synagogue in Tehran while targeting a military figure.
Global Markets React Instantly
Financial markets responded swiftly to the ceasefire news.
- Oil prices plunged by over 17%, easing pressure on global fuel markets
- Stock markets surged across Asia in early trading
The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is expected to stabilize global energy supply, which had been severely disrupted during the conflict.
Uncertain Path to Long-Term Peace
While the ceasefire offers temporary relief, major disagreements remain.
Iran has reportedly presented a 10-point proposal, demanding:
- Removal of US sanctions
- Control over the Strait of Hormuz
- Withdrawal of US forces from the region
Trump, however, described the proposal as “workable,” suggesting that negotiations could lead to a longer-term agreement.
Controversial Threats Draw Global Criticism
In the lead-up to the ceasefire, Trump made alarming statements warning of massive destruction in Iran, even suggesting that “a whole civilization could die.”
The remarks drew international condemnation, including from Pope Leo XIV, who called the threats “truly unacceptable.”
What Happens Next
With talks set to begin in Pakistan, the next two weeks will be critical in determining whether the ceasefire can evolve into lasting peace.
For now, the world watches closely as two long-time rivals step back—at least temporarily—from the edge of a potentially catastrophic war.