KATHMANDU: After nearly 40 days of intense conflict, the United States and Iran have finally agreed to a two-week ceasefire. U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the decision was made following requests from Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Pakistani Chief of Army Staff. Prior to the ceasefire, Trump had issued a stern warning to Iran, stating that failure to ensure the safe passage of ships through the Army Staff would lead to “hellish” consequences.
According to international media, this agreement was made possible through Pakistan’s mediation and a last-minute push from China. Iran has reportedly accepted the two-week ceasefire proposal put forward by Pakistan. Under the terms of the agreement, the U.S. and its ally Israel will halt their attacks, while Iran will also suspend its military activities. During this period, the Iranian military will assist in ensuring the safe movement of oil, gas, and other commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.
The ceasefire is also expected to apply to other conflict zones, including Lebanon. Furthermore, formal negotiations between the U.S. and Iran are scheduled to begin on April 10 in Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. Approximately two hours after the ceasefire was announced, Iran’s Supreme Leader directed all military units to immediately cease fire. A statement released through state media ordered all security agencies to strictly follow these instructions.
However, Iran has clarified that this is a temporary arrangement and not a permanent end to the war. On the other side, the U.S. has announced that all its offensive military operations against Iran have been halted, although security and defensive activities will continue. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed the ceasefire and praised Pakistan’s role, stating that if attacks stop, Iran will also suspend its defensive measures.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif informed that both parties have been invited to Islamabad on April 10 for face-to-face talks. According to him, the objective of the upcoming talks is to find a long-term solution. Pakistan expressed confidence that this initiative would contribute significantly to regional peace and stability.
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