The United States and Iran have agreed to an immediate two-week ceasefire, with Pakistan playing a central role in brokering the deal. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed the breakthrough just hours before President Donald Trump’s deadline for massive military strikes on Iranian territory.
Pakistan’s Diplomatic Role
The ceasefire came after direct conversations between Trump, PM Shehbaz Sharif, and Pakistan’s Field Marshal Asim Munir. Pakistan had urged both sides to halt hostilities for two weeks to give diplomacy a chance. Trump confirmed that the Pakistani leadership personally requested him to hold back the military strikes planned for Tuesday night.
In a statement posted on X, PM Shehbaz welcomed the development and invited both American and Iranian delegations to Islamabad for peace negotiations on Friday, April 10, 2026.
Trump’s Ceasefire Conditions
Trump announced the suspension of attacks on the condition that Iran immediately and completely reopens the Strait of Hormuz for international shipping. He stated that Washington had already achieved its military objectives and that a 10-point proposal received from Tehran provides a workable foundation for negotiations. Israel has also agreed to pause its strikes during the ceasefire period.
Iran’s Response
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed Tehran’s acceptance, stating that Iran’s armed forces would cease defensive operations and allow safe maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz for two weeks, subject to coordination with Iranian military authorities.
Global Markets React
The ceasefire news triggered a sharp rally across global financial markets. Oil prices dropped roughly 8 percent, with US crude falling to around $103 per barrel after touching $117 earlier in the session. US stock futures surged, with Nasdaq 100 futures jumping 1.8 percent and Dow futures climbing over 700 points.
What Comes Next
US Vice President JD Vance is expected to lead the American delegation at the Islamabad talks. Both sides will attempt to finalize a comprehensive peace agreement within the two-week window to prevent a return to hostilities.
