The United States and Iran reached a conditional two‑week ceasefire in their expanding conflict just hours before a US deadline for heightened strikes, with Pakistan playing a key mediating role, reports The New York Times.
Under the agreement, Iran agreed to allow the safe reopening of the strategic Strait of Hormuz—a vital route for global oil shipments—in exchange for a halt in US and allied attacks. Both sides described the ceasefire differently: US officials highlighted progress toward ending the fighting and a “workable” basis for future peace talks, while Iranian leaders emphasized terms that could secure sanctions relief and other concessions.
Formal negotiations are expected to begin in Islamabad, but significant gaps remain between the parties’ proposals, particularly on issues like sanctions, nuclear enrichment, and military presence in the region. Despite a two-week cease-fire with the U.S., Iran threatened to destroy foreign ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns about regional stability and oil shipping, according to the New York Post. The ceasefire does not yet signal a full end to hostilities, as fighting continues in parts of the Middle East and key issues are unresolved.
