Everything we learn about Iran and US ceasefire as Trump declares ‘whole victory’

Need to know

Donald Trump has hailed a ‘big day for world peace’ following the announcement of a ceasefire between Iran and US-Israeli forces

Need to know: Trump Agrees Two-Week Ceasefire in Iran Following Pakistani Intervention

• Donald Trump backed down from his threat to completely destroy Iran last night, agreeing to a two-week ceasefire to allow diplomatic talks to progress.
• The halt in bombings followed a public plea from Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for more time to develop last-ditch negotiations. Trump had previously said that unless Iran was willing to “make a deal” and re-open the Strait of Hormuz, then the US would rain “hell” on Iran.
• Trump had ratcheted up pressure ahead of his 8pm deadline, warning that “a whole civilisation will die” if Tehran did not agree to the deal. Following the announcement, he said was no question the US had won a “total and complete victory”.
• The White House confirmed Israel had also agreed to the ceasefire with Iran but Israeli officials have said they will continue to strike Lebanon, which it said was excluded from the ceasefire – in contradiction of Pakistan and Iran’s announcement.
• Iran later confirmed ships would be allowed through the Strait of Hormuz under military coordination. Abbas Araghchi wrote: “For a period of two weeks, safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz will be possible via coordination with Iran’s Armed Forces.”
• Trump said the US and Iranians will hash out a deal in the next two weeks after Iran delivered a 10-point plan that includes an end to hostilities in the region and sanctions, as well as the re-opening of the Strait of Hormuz with a $2million per ship charge.
• Keir Starmer has announced that he will visit the Gulf today. The UK Prime Minister said Britain will “do all we can to support and sustain this ceasefire.” He went on: “I welcome the ceasefire agreement reached overnight, which will bring a moment of relief to the region and the world… Together with our partners we must do all we can to support and sustain this ceasefire, turn it into a lasting agreement and re-open the Strait of Hormuz.”
• Writing on Truth Social, Trump said: “I agree to suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks.” He claimed the US had “already met and exceeded all Military objectives” and was close to a “definitive Agreement concerning Longterm PEACE with Iran”.
• The ceasefire gives Iran complete control over the strategically crucial strait – something they didn’t have before the conflict. The two-week period will allow Iran’s “10-point plan” to be finalised as diplomatic efforts continue across the Middle East.