The United States and Iran have agreed to a limited ceasefire following weeks of escalating conflict, with Pakistan emerging as a key mediator in brokering the deal, according to multiple international reports and official statements.
The ceasefire, expected to last around two weeks, comes just ahead of a deadline set by US President Donald Trump for possible large-scale military action against Iran.
The agreement includes a halt to US strikes, while Iran has indicated it will allow the reopening of the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping route.
However, statements from both sides indicate differences in interpretation of the deal. While Washington described the ceasefire as conditional upon safe and complete reopening of the strait, Iranian officials signaled that the arrangement is temporary and does not signify the end of the conflict.
Iran has maintained that it seeks a broader and permanent resolution rather than a short-term truce, with earlier proposals including demands such as lifting of sanctions and guarantees against future military action.
The ceasefire appears to be part of a broader diplomatic framework, with reports indicating that negotiations could take place in Islamabad in the coming days to work toward a more comprehensive agreement.
Pakistan’s role has been central to the breakthrough. Islamabad facilitated indirect communication between Washington and Tehran and proposed a ceasefire framework—often referred to as the “Islamabad Accord”—aimed at halting hostilities and initiating talks.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reportedly engaged directly with both sides, urging a delay in military escalation and offering Islamabad as a venue for negotiations.
US officials have acknowledged Pakistan’s role in facilitating the talks, while Iranian authorities have also engaged through channels coordinated by Islamabad, reflecting a rare convergence of diplomatic efforts.
Despite the agreement, the situation remains fragile. Iranian officials have stressed that cooperation on the ceasefire does not equate to an end to hostilities, and key issues—including sanctions, regional security, and nuclear policy—remain unresolved.
The development marks a significant de-escalation after weeks of conflict that disrupted global oil markets and heightened tensions across the Middle East, with further negotiations expected to determine whether a lasting peace framework can be achieved.
