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Ceasefire Announcement
The US and Iran agreed to a Pakistan-mediated two-week ceasefire, ending six weeks of fighting.
“He said he had agreed to a two-week ceasefire with Iran after almost six weeks of bombing”
Trump announced the agreement just 90 minutes before his deadline to obliterate Iran.
Iran's Foreign Minister confirmed Tehran's acceptance and said they would allow safe passage of the Strait of Hormuz.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the ceasefire including Lebanon.
Trump credited the ceasefire to conversations with Pakistani leaders.
The announcement was an abrupt turnaround from Trump's threat to wipe out Iran's entire civilization.
Conflicting Details
Key differences emerged immediately between Trump and Iran on details of the ceasefire.
Trump claimed Iran would allow unimpeded transit through the Strait of Hormuz while Iran said passage would need to be under military auspices.
A major dispute arose over whether Lebanon was included.
Iran threatened to call off the ceasefire if fighting in Lebanon continued.
Israel launched strikes on Beirut killing over 100 people.
Gulf countries reported continued Iranian attacks.
Pakistan's Brokering Role
Pakistan emerged as an unlikely but effective mediator between two bitter enemies.
“It activated backchannel diplomacy, conveyed assurances to both Washington and Tehran, and helped align immediate interests around de-escalation”
Pakistan shares a border with Iran and maintains deep historical, cultural, and religious links.
Pakistan's Foreign Minister said it has strong credentials as the only country enjoying good relations with both the US and Iran.
Pakistan's military brass had maintained cordial ties with Trump since last May.
Analysts hailed Pakistan's role as one of its most significant diplomatic achievements in years.
The first round of talks was scheduled in Islamabad on April 10.
Skepticism and Challenges
Skepticism about enforcement and timing remained despite the optimism.
Pakistan's Prime Minister said violations had already occurred across the conflict zone.
The UAE Ministry of Defense said it engaged 17 ballistic missiles and 35 drones from Iran.
Israel had conducted over 30 strikes across Lebanon.
Lebanon's health ministry said Israel's attacks had killed 112 people.
Iran threatened to call off the deal if the fighting in Lebanon continued.