USA
Olamilekan Abayomi
The US and Iran have agreed to a two-week ceasefire, with talks set to begin in Islamabad, Pakistan, on April 10, 2026. This development comes after US President Donald Trump announced the ceasefire, citing conversations with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Gen. Asim Munir. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council has accepted the ceasefire, with the condition that the US halts attacks on Iran.
The ceasefire is part of a broader agreement, where Iran will allow safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz for two weeks under Iranian military management. This is a significant development, as the Strait is a critical waterway for global oil shipments.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has invited both countries to Islamabad for face-to-face talks aimed at reaching a conclusive agreement to settle all disputes. The talks are expected to be intense, with Iran presenting a 10-point peace plan that includes the withdrawal of US combat forces from the region, lifting of sanctions, and release of frozen Iranian assets.
The US and Iran have been engaged in escalating tensions, with the US launching airstrikes on Iran and Iran responding with attacks on US military bases and oil facilities. The ceasefire is seen as a significant de-escalation of the conflict.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has confirmed that Iran will halt operations if attacks stop, and safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz will be allowed for two weeks. The agreement marks a shift in the US-Iran conflict, with both sides seeking to avoid further escalation.
The international community has welcomed the ceasefire, with Australia and other countries expressing support for the agreement. However, there are concerns about the implementation of the ceasefire, with reports of continued attacks in the region.
The talks in Islamabad are expected to be challenging, with both sides having different expectations. Iran’s demands include control of the Strait of Hormuz, withdrawal of US forces, and lifting of sanctions, while the US is seeking a comprehensive agreement on Iran’s nuclear program.
The ceasefire is seen as a diplomatic victory for Pakistan, which has been mediating between the US and Iran. The country’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has played a key role in brokering the agreement.
The global market has responded positively to the ceasefire, with oil prices dropping and equity-index futures surging. The agreement is expected to have significant implications for the global economy and regional stability.
