US, Iran Announce Two-Week Ceasefire; Talks Likely in Islamabad On Friday

WASHINGTON, Apr 8: The United States has agreed to a two-week ceasefire with Iran following a proposal by Pakistan, with negotiations between the two sides likely to take place in Islamabad on Friday, US President Donald Trump announced.

The announcement came shortly before a stated US deadline for military action against Iran, marking a significant de-escalation in tensions in West Asia. Trump said the ceasefire would be “double-sided,” halting both US strikes and Iranian retaliation for the agreed period.

In Tehran, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council confirmed acceptance of the ceasefire and indicated readiness to begin negotiations with the US in Islamabad starting Friday.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif formally invited delegations from both countries for talks on April 10, aimed at reaching a comprehensive agreement to resolve ongoing disputes.

According to Trump, the ceasefire followed discussions with Sharif and Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir, who urged restraint and requested a halt to imminent US military action, contingent upon Iran ensuring the complete and safe reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

“I agree to suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social, adding that the pause would allow both sides to negotiate a broader peace agreement.

The White House, through press secretary Karoline Leavitt, confirmed that discussions on in-person talks are underway, though no final schedule has been officially announced.

Trump also revealed that the US has received a 10-point proposal from Iran, which he described as a “workable basis” for negotiations. He said most contentious issues between the two nations have already been addressed, and the ceasefire window would help finalize a long-term agreement.

Iranian Foreign Minister Syed Abbas Araghchi, in a statement shared by Trump, confirmed that Iran would halt defensive operations if attacks cease and ensure coordinated passage through the Strait of Hormuz during the ceasefire.

The conflict began on February 28 after the US launched military action over Iran’s refusal to relinquish its nuclear fuel stockpile. (Agencies)