Trump Announces Two-Week Ceasefire in West Asia Amid Tensions with Iran

In a significant development, President Donald Trump has declared a two-week ceasefire in West Asia, contingent upon Iran's agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This announcement follows escalating tensions and military actions in the region. Iran's Foreign Minister confirmed the ceasefire, stating that defensive operations would cease if attacks on Iran stop. The situation remains fluid, with key updates regarding negotiations and international responses. As the ceasefire unfolds, the implications for regional stability and global oil prices are critical. Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving story.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 8, 2026, 05:54 IST

Ceasefire Agreement in West Asia

On Tuesday, President Donald Trump of the United States declared a two-week ceasefire in West Asia, contingent upon Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, confirmed the ceasefire, stating that Iranian forces would cease their defensive operations if attacks against Iran were stopped.

He mentioned, “For two weeks, safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz will be coordinated with Iran’s Armed Forces, taking into account technical limitations.”

This announcement came just before a deadline set by Trump for Tehran to negotiate a deal regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Earlier, Trump had warned that a “whole civilization will die” in Iran if an agreement was not reached by the deadline.

Key Updates on the West Asia Conflict:

In a social media update, Trump revealed that Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and military chief Asim Munir had urged him to delay military actions against Iran.
He stated that the planned US strikes on Iran would be postponed for two weeks, provided Iran agrees to fully and safely reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump emphasized that this ceasefire would be mutual, explaining that the US had achieved its military objectives and was close to a long-term peace agreement with Iran and stability in the Middle East.
He noted that Washington had received a 10-point proposal from Iran, which they viewed as a viable foundation for negotiations. Trump indicated that most past disagreements had been resolved, and the two-week timeframe would allow for finalizing the agreement.
Araghchi mentioned that Iran’s Supreme National Security Council had consented to the ceasefire in light of the US's request for negotiations based on its 15-point proposal, which Trump accepted as a framework for discussions.
The Israeli government has yet to respond to the ceasefire announcement.
It remains unclear whether the ceasefire will also apply to Israeli operations in Lebanon. However, the Pakistani Prime Minister stated that the ceasefire would encompass Lebanon.
He also invited US and Iranian representatives to Islamabad on Friday to further negotiate a comprehensive agreement to resolve all disputes.
Following the ceasefire declaration, Brent crude oil prices plummeted to $92 per barrel on Wednesday, down from nearly $110 the previous day. The price was $78 per barrel on February 27, just before the conflict escalated.

Background of the Conflict

The US and Israel initiated an attack on Iran on February 28, citing Tehran's actions as a significant threat to Israel's security. The US has positioned itself as a protector of Israel. In retaliation, Iran has targeted Israel and US military installations in the region, as well as major cities in Gulf nations.

Iran has effectively restricted access to the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime route for international trade, leading to a global energy crisis, as approximately 20% of the world's oil supply transits through this narrow passage.

Israel has expressed concerns that Iran is nearing the capability to develop a nuclear weapon, which could disrupt the regional security landscape. Iran, however, insists that its nuclear program is intended for peaceful purposes.

This story is ongoing and will be updated as more information becomes available.