Washington: A planned US military strike on Iran was halted just hours before execution after Donald Trump announced a two-week suspension, citing a breakthrough mediated by Pakistan.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the decision followed discussions with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir. The pause is conditional on Iran reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global energy supplies.
Trump stated that, “Subject to the Islamic Republic of Iran agreeing to the complete, immediate, and safe opening of the Strait of Hormuz, I agree to suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks.”
Shortly after the announcement, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that a tentative understanding had been reached. Abbas Araghchi indicated that Iran would halt its defensive operations if the attacks ceased and allow controlled passage through the Strait during the two weeks.
🚨 President Donald J. Trump makes a statement on Iran: pic.twitter.com/9mqTayL0Q3
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) April 7, 2026
The agreement comes amid soaring regional tensions, with Trump earlier issuing a stark warning that a whole civilization will die tonight if Iran failed to comply. The statement had intensified fears across the Middle East, where countries were bracing for a large-scale escalation.
The conflict, ongoing for over five weeks since joint US-Israeli operations began in late February, has already resulted in significant casualties and widespread destruction. Nearly 2,076 people have reportedly been killed in Iran, alongside casualties in neighbouring Gulf states, Israel, and among US forces.
The temporary ceasefire is expected to shift focus toward diplomatic negotiations, with further talks likely to be held in Islamabad. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council has hinted that the truce could be extended if discussions progress positively.
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz earlier in the conflict had disrupted nearly 20 percent of global oil and gas flows, triggering sharp increases in fuel prices worldwide and adding pressure on Washington domestically and internationally.
While the pause has been welcomed as a relief across the region, uncertainty remains over whether all parties, particularly Israel and Iran’s regional allies, will adhere to the ceasefire terms. Analysts note that the next two weeks will be crucial in determining whether the breakthrough leads to a long-term agreement or merely delays further escalation in an already volatile conflict.
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