Trump pauses bombing; Iran agrees with conditions as tensions remain high across Middle East
Donald Trump has announced a two-week pause in US military strikes on Iran, calling it a “double-sided ceasefire” aimed at easing rising tensions in the region. The announcement came shortly before a key escalation deadline, with Trump saying both sides would hold back from aggressive action during this period.
Ceasefire tied to Strait of Hormuz reopening
A major condition for the pause is the “complete, immediate, and safe reopening” of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil supplies.
Trump said the decision followed discussions with leaders including Shehbaz Sharif and Asim Munir, and added that US military objectives in the region had already been met.
He also hinted at a broader peace deal, saying Iran had submitted a “10-point proposal,” while Washington is working with its own framework for negotiations.
Iran agrees, but sets clear conditions
Iran signalled its willingness to pause hostilities but made it clear the ceasefire is conditional. Officials said defensive operations would stop only if there are no further attacks.
Tehran also confirmed that the Strait of Hormuz would remain open during the period, though movement would be monitored and managed by its armed forces.
Fresh attacks despite ceasefire announcement
However, the situation on the ground remained volatile. Hours after the announcement, Iran reportedly launched missiles targeting Israel and parts of the Gulf, including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Kuwait.
Air-raid sirens and missile alerts were reported across several regions, causing panic among residents.
Israel continues operations
Israel did not immediately halt its military actions, with reports of continued strikes inside Iran. Sirens were heard in multiple areas, though no immediate casualties were confirmed.
Tensions also spread to the United Arab Emirates, where alerts were issued and a reported strike caused a fire at a gas facility in Abu Dhabi.
‘Pause, not peace’ as uncertainty remains
In a parallel development, Iran’s leadership ordered forces to stop firing, describing the move as a pause rather than a complete end to the conflict.
Despite the ceasefire announcement, ongoing strikes and mutual distrust indicate the situation remains fragile, with the region still on edge.
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