Former President Donald Trump has announced a temporary suspension of planned military action against Iran. This decision followed discussions with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir.

Ceasefire Contingent on Hormuz Opening

The two-week halt in hostilities is contingent upon Iran’s immediate and complete opening of the Strait of Hormuz, as stated in a post on Trump’s Truth Social account. He indicated this pause allows for the finalization of a long-term peace agreement and greater regional stability.

Factors Contributing to the Pause

Trump cited nearing completion of military objectives and the existence of a 10-point proposal from Iran as contributing factors to the suspension. He framed the situation as a diplomatic opportunity to achieve a comprehensive peace deal and a lasting resolution to Middle East issues.

Acknowledgement from Iran and Pakistan

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council has acknowledged the truce, according to Trump via Truth Social. Iran’s official statement, also shared by Trump, expressed gratitude to Pakistani leaders for their mediation efforts.

The statement confirmed Iran’s acceptance of a two-week ceasefire, contingent on the cessation of U.S. attacks. In return, the Iranian Armed Forces will halt defensive operations, and safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz will be facilitated through coordination with Iranian authorities.

Pakistan's Role in Mediation

Prime Minister Sharif had previously urged both the United States and Iran to temporarily cease hostilities. He proposed a two-week delay to allow diplomatic efforts to succeed, suggesting Iran open the Strait of Hormuz as a goodwill gesture.

Escalating Tensions Leading to the Pause

This announcement follows a period of heightened tension, with the U.S. escalating threats against Iran. Trump had previously threatened to target Iranian infrastructure, including power plants and bridges, if the Strait of Hormuz remained closed.

Earlier, Trump warned of catastrophic consequences, including potential destruction of Iranian civilization, if his demands were unmet. The situation escalated following a U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran on February 29th, resulting in the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Iran responded with retaliatory strikes and tightened its control over the Strait of Hormuz, threatening global energy supplies. The conflict has resulted in over 1,900 deaths in Iran and significant casualties in Lebanon, Gulf Arab states, the occupied West Bank, and Israel, including U.S. service members.