In a major diplomatic breakthrough, the United States and Iran have stepped back from the brink of war by agreeing to a two-week ceasefire mediated by Pakistan. This significant development occurred just two hours before the deadline set by US President Donald Trump for a devastating strike on Iran was due to expire. Under the terms of the agreement, both nations have committed to halting all military operations to create a favorable environment for upcoming peace negotiations.
A critical aspect of this deal is Iran’s agreement to ensure the safe and complete reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. As one of the world’s most vital oil transit routes, the closure of this strait had caused global oil prices to surge, and its reopening is now expected to significantly improve global supply chains.
The ceasefire was made possible through the mediation of Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief General Asim Munir. Following their intervention, the United States decided to suspend its planned military actions, while Israel has also consented to a temporary halt of its operations. Iran has officially confirmed that Pakistan played a key role in facilitating the dialogue between the two rival powers.
Formal talks between the delegations are set to begin on April 10 in Islamabad. Taking to social media platform X, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his gratitude, stating that the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States, along with their allies, have agreed to an immediate ceasefire across various regions, including Lebanon. He emphasized that both nations aim to reach a definitive settlement for all disputes and expressed hope that the Islamabad summit would pave the way for sustainable peace and stability in West Asia.
