
Tehran — Iran has signalled a willingness to de-escalate tensions by agreeing to temporarily reopen the Strait of Hormuz, shortly after Donald Trump announced a 14-day pause on planned US military strikes.
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said the move comes amid ongoing ceasefire negotiations, indicating a potential breakthrough in the standoff. He confirmed that safe passage through the Strait would be allowed for two weeks, provided vessels coordinate with Iranian authorities and follow operational guidelines.
The decision, he explained, follows renewed diplomatic engagement, including a US proposal and Iran’s own 10-point framework for negotiations. However, Iran made it clear that its actions are conditional.
According to Araghchi, Iran will halt its military response only if attacks against it stop. He reiterated that the country’s armed forces remain prepared but would scale back operations if reciprocal restraint is observed.
On the other side, Trump framed the pause in military action as part of a “double-sided ceasefire.” He stated that US objectives had already been achieved and expressed optimism that both nations were close to reaching a broader peace agreement.
Trump also noted that Washington had received Iran’s proposal and described it as a viable basis for finalising a deal. The two-week window, he said, is intended to help both sides conclude negotiations and stabilise the region.
The developments mark a significant easing of tensions in the Gulf, which had been on the brink of escalation. With both sides showing signs of compromise, the coming weeks are expected to be crucial in determining whether a lasting agreement can be reached.
With inputs from IANS