Islamabad, Washington – In a major diplomatic surprise, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Wednesday that the United States, Iran, and their allied parties have reached a comprehensive ceasefire agreement “everywhere,” covering the Lebanese front and all conflict zones active since February 28.
Last-Minute Mediation: Islamabad Brings Rivals Together
Via his account on platform “X,” Shehbaz Sharif confirmed the success of Pakistani mediation conducted in cooperation with Field Marshal Asim Munir, announcing an official invitation to the American and Iranian delegations to meet in Islamabad next Friday to draft a final agreement resolving all outstanding disputes. Shehbaz Sharif praised the “wisdom and great understanding” shown by both sides in supporting regional stability.
Trump’s Conditions: “Hormuz” in Exchange for Halting Strikes
For his part, U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed via “Truth Social” his approval to suspend attacks for two weeks, but set a clear “price” for this de-escalation: the “full, immediate, and secure reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.”
Key Points from Trump’s Announcement:
- Mutual Agreement: The ceasefire will apply from both sides.
- Basis for Negotiation: Washington received a “10-point proposal” from Iran and considers it workable.
- Historic Progress: Agreements have been reached on nearly all previous points of dispute.
- Goal: Achieving a “long-term peace” to end the era of destructive escalation.
Regional and Diplomatic Dimensions
- Lebanese Front: Israeli outlet “Ynet” cited security sources confirming the truce will include Lebanon, boosting hopes of halting violence there.
- Direct Talks: CNN revealed that the Donald Trump administration is preparing for direct negotiations with Tehran, with potential participation from Vice President J.D. Vance in these sensitive talks.
- White House Caution: Despite optimism, a White House spokesperson told Axios that discussions about direct meetings are still ongoing, and that “only the president will announce the final position.”
Scene Summary
Attention now turns to “Friday in Islamabad,” where observers believe this truce—despite its short duration (14 days)—represents the most serious chance since the war began to defuse a confrontation that could have destroyed “entire civilizations,” as Donald Trump previously warned.
