United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres has welcomed the recent announcement of a two-week ceasefire by the US and Iran. He emphasized the importance of all parties involved in the West Asia conflict adhering to international law and the ceasefire terms to protect lives and reduce human suffering. Guterres also expressed gratitude to the countries facilitating this temporary peace initiative.
Guterres’ Personal Envoy Jean Arnault is currently in the region, actively supporting initiatives aimed at achieving lasting peace. This move comes after US President Donald Trump revealed a conditional pause in planned attacks linked to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a development that has been widely welcomed globally. The decision was made just 90 minutes before the self-imposed deadline set by Trump for Iran to agree to a deal following diplomatic negotiations.
Trump, in a recent post on Truth Social, announced the suspension of further escalation in attacks for two weeks, provided Iran agrees to open the strategic shipping route. He cited the accomplishment of military objectives and progress towards a long-term peace agreement with Iran and the Middle East as reasons for this decision. Trump mentioned receiving a 10-point proposal from Iran, which he deemed a viable basis for negotiations.
The ceasefire’s continuation hinges on Iran’s agreement to the complete and safe reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, as outlined by Trump. Iran has indicated its willingness to halt operations if attacks against the country cease. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran’s Armed Forces would suspend defensive operations if attacks were stopped. He also mentioned the possibility of safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz for two weeks, subject to coordination with Iran’s Armed Forces and technical considerations.
An official from the White House confirmed Israel’s acceptance of the two-week ceasefire, although specific details regarding this agreement are still unclear.
