Tehran/Washington (Rajeev Sharma): A dramatic de-escalation unfolded in West Asia as the United States and Iran agreed to a temporary halt in hostilities, stepping back from the brink of a wider conflict and reopening a key global shipping route.
Just hours before a deadline he had set, US President Donald Trump chose not to proceed with threatened strikes on Iranian infrastructure, signalling a shift towards diplomacy. The decision came alongside an understanding between both nations to observe a two-week ceasefire.
Iranian authorities confirmed their acceptance of the pause in fighting and indicated readiness for negotiations, which are expected to take place in Islamabad. The talks are likely to explore options for reducing tensions and preventing further military escalation.
A key component of the agreement includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global oil shipments that had been at the centre of rising tensions.
Although the ceasefire has been endorsed by both sides, clarity is still awaited on when it will formally come into effect. Reports of continued strikes in parts of the region suggest that ground realities may take time to align with the diplomatic announcement.
Officials have also indicated that Israel is on board with the temporary truce, potentially broadening its impact across the conflict zone.
The development has injected cautious optimism into global markets and diplomatic circles, with mediators now focusing on turning the short-term pause into a sustained peace effort.
