US President Donald Trump has announced a two-week ceasefire in the US military’s Operation Epic Fury against Iran, following Tehran’s 10-point proposal aimed at pausing hostilities in the Middle East. The ceasefire comes just 90 minutes before Trump’s initial deadline to launch major attacks on Iran, signaling a last-minute effort to prevent further escalation. The truce is contingent on Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz fully and safely, a crucial global shipping route.
Iran has reciprocated, ordering its military to halt operations in the region, with Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei stating, “This is not the end of the war, but all military branches should follow the Supreme Leader’s order and cease their fire.” The temporary pause now sets the stage for high-stakes diplomatic talks in Islamabad on April 10, where both nations are expected to finalize terms that could stabilize the region.
What Are the Key Conditions of the Ceasefire?
The ceasefire agreement is not unconditional. Key points from Iran’s 10-point proposal include:
- Suspension of all military aggression against US forces
- Continued Iranian control of the Strait of Hormuz, with coordinated passage of ships
- Acceptance of uranium enrichment in its nuclear program
- Removal of international sanctions against Iran
- Termination of United Nations and International Atomic Energy Agency resolutions
- Compensation for war damages and withdrawal of forces
Senior US officials have informed Israel that the United States will insist on strict enforcement, including a complete halt to Iran’s nuclear enrichment and dismantling of ballistic missile capabilities. Notably, discrepancies between the Farsi and English versions of Iran’s proposal have raised questions about Tehran’s intentions.
How Will the Strait of Hormuz Operate During the Ceasefire?
During the two-week truce, Iran and Oman will impose transit fees on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, using the revenue for reconstruction projects. All movements will be coordinated with Iran’s military to ensure safety and prevent accidental clashes. Analysts believe this approach could maintain trade flow while keeping leverage in Iran’s control of the chokepoint.
What Diplomatic Moves Are Planned Next?
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has invited delegations from the US and Iran to Islamabad on April 10 for face-to-face negotiations. While the White House confirms that discussions are ongoing, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt cautioned that nothing is official until formally announced by the President. Trump has already referred to Iran’s 10-point plan as a “workable basis for negotiations”, signaling optimism for a broader agreement.
Potential Challenges to a Lasting Truce
Despite the ceasefire, several factors may threaten its durability:
- Differences between the Farsi and English versions of Iran’s proposal create interpretation conflicts
- Ongoing regional militant activities, although temporarily paused, could escalate if misunderstandings occur
- Enforcement of conditions like uranium enrichment limits and ballistic missile dismantling will require strict verification mechanisms
The Islamic Resistance in Iraq has also pledged a two-week suspension of operations, further reducing immediate regional tension, but analysts warn that long-term stability remains fragile.
What could break the US-Iran ceasefire before two weeks?
Ceasefire violations could arise from militant attacks, miscommunication on ship transit, or disagreements over nuclear restrictions. Both nations will need strict monitoring to prevent accidental escalation.
How will the ceasefire affect global oil supply and trade?
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital shipping route for global oil, and coordinated passage with fees will allow trade to continue. However, delays or misunderstandings could temporarily spike oil prices.
The two-week pause is being viewed as a crucial window for diplomacy, giving negotiators an opportunity to resolve decades-long tensions. Experts suggest that if both sides adhere to the agreed terms, the Middle East could see a rare period of reduced military confrontation, while Tehran and Washington work toward a long-term agreement addressing sanctions, nuclear capabilities, and regional security.
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