Iran has announced a temporary reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, signalling a potential de-escalation in tensions following weeks of conflict involving the United States and Israel.
Abbas Araghchi said the decision is tied to a conditional two-week ceasefire, during which Iran will also suspend its defensive military actions—provided hostilities against it come to an end.
“For a period of two weeks, safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz will be possible via coordination with Iran’s Armed Forces and with due consideration of technical limitations,” Araghchi said on Tuesday night.
“If attacks against Iran are halted, our powerful armed forces will cease their defensive operations.”
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global oil route, and its reopening is expected to ease pressure on international energy markets that have been rattled by the conflict.
However, Iran made it clear that the pause in hostilities does not signal a full resolution. The country’s Supreme National Security Council stated that a permanent end to the war depends on the United States accepting conditions outlined in its proposed 10-point plan.
“It is emphasised that this (ceasefire agreement) does not mean the end of the war, and Iran will only accept the end of the war when, in addition to accepting the principles outlined in the 10-point plan, the details are finalised in negotiations,” the council said.
As part of the diplomatic process, talks between Iran and the US are expected to take place in Islamabad, with Pakistan playing a mediating role.
In a statement, Donald Trump confirmed he agreed to suspend military operations after discussions with Pakistan’s leadership, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
“Based on conversations with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir… and 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,” Trump wrote.
Sharif welcomed the development, expressing optimism about the peace process.
“Both parties have displayed remarkable wisdom and understanding,” he said, adding that he hopes the planned “Islamabad Talks” will yield lasting peace.
Key elements of Iran’s 10-point proposal include guarantees against future US attacks, recognition of its uranium enrichment programme, compensation for damages, withdrawal of US troops from the region, and the lifting of sanctions.
Iran, in turn, is said to have reaffirmed that it does not intend to develop nuclear weapons.
The ceasefire arrangement, reportedly accepted by Israel as well, is expected to take effect immediately, with the US already issuing directives to pause offensive military operations.
