Trump announces 14-day ceasefire as Iran signals peace talks to begin soon

An informed source speaking to the Tasnim news agency has indicated that Iran may withdraw from the newly established ceasefire agreement if Israeli operations against Lebanon do not cease immediately.

The source, described as having close ties to the Revolutionary Guard, stated that Tehran is currently reviewing its participation in the truce. According to the report, Iran’s acceptance of the two-week framework was based on the understanding that the halt in hostilities would apply to all fronts, including Lebanon’s “Islamic resistance.”

In response to the heavy bombardment of Beirut and other Lebanese regions earlier today, the source claimed that Iran’s armed forces are already identifying retaliatory targets. The official characterized Israel’s actions as “clear violations” of the spirit of the peace process.

The statement included a sharp warning to Washington, suggesting that if the United States cannot restrain Israel, Iran would be forced to intervene “by force” to halt the escalation. This development significantly raises the stakes for the upcoming diplomatic talks in Islamabad.

Despite the regional ceasefire agreement reached on Tuesday, several Gulf countries have reported being targeted by Iranian missiles and drones throughout Wednesday. The reports indicate that while the truce is officially in effect, maritime and coastal security remains highly volatile.

Qatar’s Defense Ministry confirmed it was targeted by seven missiles and drones launched from Iran. However, officials stated that all incoming threats were successfully intercepted, with no casualties or damage reported on Qatari soil.

In contrast, Kuwait’s Interior Ministry reported “severe material damage” following a separate Iranian drone attack on Wednesday. The strikes hit multiple vital facilities, including those belonging to the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation and the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources.

The Kuwaiti government confirmed that fires broke out at several targeted sites, which include strategic oil facilities, three power stations, and critical water desalination plants. These developments pose a significant challenge to the stability of the 14-day truce as diplomatic delegations prepare to meet in Islamabad.

In a high-priority update posted to X, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif revealed that violations of the newly established ceasefire have already been reported at “a few places across the conflict zone.”

Sharif warned that these early breaches undermine the spirit of the ongoing peace process. He issued an earnest and sincere appeal to all involved parties to exercise maximum restraint and strictly respect the 14-day truce agreed upon to allow for the upcoming diplomatic negotiations.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the ceasefire period is critical for diplomacy to take root and for delegations to begin work on a more stable and lasting resolution to the regional conflict.

Lebanon is witnessing one of the most devastating days of the conflict as the Israeli military launched a massive wave of 100 air strikes across multiple locations in just 10 minutes. The bombardment included busy districts in central Beirut, leaving behind extraordinary destruction.

An Israeli strike on the southern suburbs of Beirut, April 8, 2026. REUTERS/Mohamed Azakir

The strikes occurred amid widespread confusion over the regional ceasefire. While earlier statements suggested a broad truce, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu clarified at 6:00 AM that the agreement does not apply to Lebanon. The Israeli army has reinforced this stance with intense afternoon operations that came without any prior warning to civilians.

The site of an Israeli strike, April 8, 2026. REUTERS/Mohamed Azakir

Multiple hospitals have declared mass casualty events as the influx of wounded exceeds capacity. Authorities have issued an urgent appeal for all available doctors, nurses, and individuals with medical experience to report to strike locations and emergency wards immediately.

Aftermath of an Israeli strike in Beirut, April 8, 2026. REUTERS/Stringer

In a televised address to his Cabinet, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that Pakistan played a pivotal role in brokering the current pause in hostilities. He credited the diplomatic efforts of Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir for their sustained engagement with leadership in both Washington and Tehran.

The Prime Minister described the 14-day ceasefire as a “first step” toward broader regional stability. He expressed optimism that the high-stakes negotiations scheduled for this Friday in Islamabad would help transition the fragile truce into a permanent resolution.

“The war has only been temporarily averted, but this is an important beginning,” Sharif remarked. While confirming the talks, the Prime Minister did not specify the exact composition of the visiting delegations or their specific arrival times in the capital.

Jean Arnault, the personal envoy of U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, landed in Tehran on Wednesday, just hours after the U.S. and Iran reached an agreement on a 14-day suspension of hostilities.

Arnault is visiting various regional capitals to bolster efforts toward a comprehensive and durable resolution to the conflict. The envoy’s primary mission is to provide international support for the fragile peace framework currently being established.

During his stay, the envoy is scheduled to hold several meetings with high-ranking Iranian officials to discuss their perspective on the diplomatic path forward and the logistics of the upcoming negotiations.

Stock markets are surging worldwide, and oil prices are plunging back toward $90 per barrel after President Donald Trump pulled back from his threat to force a “whole civilization” to die in the war with Iran.

The S&P 500 leaped 2.7% after Trump, Iran and Israel agreed to a two-week ceasefire, just hours before a deadline the U.S. president had set for Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz and allow oil to flow freely again from the Persian Gulf to customers worldwide.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 1,350 points, and the Nasdaq composite surged 3.4% following even bigger gains in European and Asian markets.

The Kingdom of Morocco officially welcomed the newly announced ceasefire on Wednesday, expressing strong support for the upcoming negotiations between the United States and Iran in Pakistan.

In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Morocco emphasized that it hopes the dialogue will secure the “higher interest of the brotherly Arab countries in the Gulf” and pave the way for durable regional stability.

As a key strategic ally of Washington in North Africa, Morocco also highlighted the critical necessity of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open for international navigation. The recent maritime disruptions have had a severe domestic impact, driving fuel prices in Morocco up by more than 30%.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth speaks to members of the media during a press briefing at the Pentagon in Washington, Wednesday, April 8, 2026. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth clarified the administration’s stance on Iran’s nuclear assets during a Pentagon briefing on Wednesday. While the President recently suggested a collaborative effort to “dig up” buried materials, Hegseth emphasized that the U.S. expectation is for Iran to surrender its enriched uranium voluntarily.

The Pentagon chief refrained from confirming whether Tehran has officially agreed to these terms but issued a stark warning regarding non-compliance. Hegseth noted that if the material is not handed over, the U.S. might resort to operations similar to the joint strikes conducted with Israel against Iranian nuclear sites last summer.

“We reserve that opportunity,” Hegseth stated, indicating that military options remain on the table despite the current 14-day ceasefire agreement.

In a news conference at the Pentagon on Wednesday, General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, outlined the current primary military objectives for the U.S. mission in Iran.

According to Caine, the military remains focused on three core pillars: the destruction of Iran’s ballistic missile and drone capabilities, the neutralization of its navy, and the dismantling of its defense industrial base.

The briefing highlights a continued shift in the administration’s stated goals over the 5½-week conflict. While the President and various officials have previously listed up to five varying objectives—including eliminating the Iranian Air Force, blocking nuclear pathways, and dismantling proxy networks—the Pentagon’s latest stance narrows the immediate operational focus.

Despite assertions from the White House that mission goals have remained consistent, analysts note that the strategic priorities have evolved alongside the diplomatic developments leading up to the current 14-day ceasefire.

Syria has officially announced the reopening of its airspace for all commercial flights, citing a significant reduction in regional tensions following the 14-day ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran.

The Syrian Civil Aviation Authority confirmed on Wednesday that conditions at Damascus International Airport have returned to normal. Operations are now considered safe for international transit, marking a major step toward restoring regional travel corridors.

Syria’s airspace had been strictly closed in recent weeks following a series of high-intensity exchanges between the U.S., Israel, and the Islamic Republic. These hostilities had forced global airlines to reroute flights, causing massive delays and logistical challenges for travelers worldwide.

U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stern economic warning via social media, stating that any nation providing military weapons to Iran will face an immediate 50% tariff on all goods exported to the United States.

“There will be no exclusions or exemptions!” the President posted on his Truth Social platform. The directive appears aimed at further isolating Tehran’s defense capabilities following the announcement of a temporary ceasefire.

However, policy analysts note that it remains unclear how the administration plans to enforce these import taxes immediately, as social media declarations do not automatically override existing trade laws or create new tariff schedules without formal executive action and regulatory filings.

Smoke rises following an Israeli airstrike on a building in Beirut, Lebanon, Wednesday, April 8, 2026. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)

A series of powerful Israeli airstrikes targeted several areas in central Beirut on Wednesday morning. According to reports confirmed by the state-run National News Agency, the strikes occurred without prior warning, sending loud booms echoing throughout the capital.

Thick smoke was seen rising from multiple points across the city. While the specific targets remain unclear, several impacts were noted in busy commercial districts. Since the escalation began on March 2, Israeli operations have largely focused on the south and the southern suburbs; strikes within the city center itself remain a rare and significant escalation.

The timing of the bombardment is particularly notable, occurring just hours after the announcement of a 14-day ceasefire between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. Although mediator Pakistan suggested the truce covers all fronts, Israel has maintained that the agreement does not extend to its operations in Lebanon.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held a high-level call on Wednesday with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, to express Turkey’s satisfaction regarding the planned 14-day pause in regional hostilities.

Minister Fidan emphasized that Turkey remains deeply committed to mediating efforts and will continue to work toward transitioning this temporary truce into a permanent peace agreement.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan further reinforced this stance in a statement on X, urging all parties to ensure the ceasefire is shielded from potential “provocations and sabotage.” Erdogan noted that it is Turkey’s “genuine wish” for the region to move past the suffering of conflict and achieve long-term stability and tranquility.

Pope Leo XIV appears on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica for his first Sunday blessing after his election. (Gregorio Borgia / Associated Press)

At the conclusion of his weekly general audience on Wednesday, Pope Leo XIV described the newly announced ceasefire as a “sign of true hope.” The Pontiff also invited the faithful to participate in a peace prayer vigil scheduled for this Saturday at St. Peter’s Basilica.

The statement follows the Pope’s forceful criticism on Tuesday, where he condemned threats against Iranian cultural heritage as “truly unacceptable,” emphasizing that strikes on civilian infrastructure would constitute a violation of international law.

In Rome, Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani also welcomed the truce, noting its positive implications for both Middle Eastern stability and the Italian economy. While supporting the pause in hostilities, Tajani reiterated that “Iran cannot be allowed to possess nuclear weapons,” while affirming that avoiding civilian casualties remains a priority for the international community.

Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has launched a scathing critique of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following the ceasefire announcement, labeling the exclusion of Israel from the negotiations a historic failure.

“There has never been such a diplomatic disaster in all our history,” Lapid stated in a social media post. He argued that Israel’s national security interests were sidelined as decisions were made without Israeli representation “at the table.”

While praising the military’s performance and the resilience of the Israeli public, Lapid insisted that Netanyahu failed both strategically and diplomatically. “It will take us years to repair the diplomatic and strategic damage that Netanyahu caused due to arrogance, negligence, and lack of strategic planning,” he added.

The internal political backlash comes as the Netanyahu government attempts to balance its support for the U.S.-led truce with its ongoing military objectives in Lebanon.

Despite the broader regional de-escalation, military activity has intensified in Lebanon. Local reports have confirmed the aftermath of an Israeli strike on a cafe in Sidon, highlighting the ongoing volatility on the northern front.

Lebanon’s state news agency, NNA, reports that Israeli artillery shelling and airstrikes have continued across southern Lebanon. One specific strike on a building near a hospital resulted in four fatalities, while other attacks on medical points have left several people injured.

These operations align with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s earlier clarification that the two-week ceasefire agreement between the U.S. and Iran excludes Lebanon.

Confusion remains regarding the exact timing for the cessation of hostilities in other theaters. Israeli media reports indicate that the truce will only be fully recognized once Iran officially reopens the Strait of Hormuz, with Israel prepared for continued Iranian-linked attacks during the transitional period.

U.S. President Donald Trump holds a press conference in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., April 6, 2026. REUTERS/Evan Vucci

President Donald Trump has characterized the newly brokered two-week ceasefire with Iran as a “total and complete victory” for the United States, according to a report from AFP.

“Total and complete victory. 100 percent. No question about it,” Trump told the news agency during a brief telephone call when asked about the implications of the truce.

The President further asserted that any final peace agreement would address Iran’s remaining nuclear material. While he did not provide specific details regarding the status of the uranium, he insisted that the matter “will be perfectly taken care of, or I wouldn’t have settled.”

The comments signal the administration’s intent to leverage the temporary pause in hostilities as a position of strength heading into the diplomatic talks scheduled for later this week in Islamabad.

In a series of late-night updates on his Truth Social platform, President Trump has declared the newly enacted ceasefire a historic turning point, framing it as a “big day for World Peace.”

The President signaled immense economic optimism following the de-escalation, predicting that the region is entering a “Golden Age of the Middle East!!!” and suggesting that “Big money will be made” as stability returns to global energy markets and trade routes.

The posts echo the President’s earlier claims of a “total victory” and highlight his administration’s focus on leveraging the 14-day pause in hostilities to reshape regional alliances and economic partnerships ahead of the Islamabad summit.

People mourn over the flag-draped coffin of a member of the Basij killed in an Israeli attack, during a funeral in Tehran. Vahid Salemi/AP

Since the outbreak of hostilities on February 28, thousands have lost their lives across the Middle East. As a two-week ceasefire begins, the human cost of the conflict is coming into sharper focus.

Note: The following figures are based on reports from various authorities and monitoring groups as of Wednesday; The Info Zone has not independently verified all tolls.

The casualties reflect a theater of war that expanded rapidly from direct strikes on Iran to proxy engagements in Iraq and a secondary front in southern Lebanon.

Conflicting reports have emerged regarding the scope of the two-week truce, specifically concerning military operations in Lebanon.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Wednesday that while Israel supports the decision to suspend attacks against Iran for a 14-day period, the ceasefire does not include Lebanon, according to Israeli media. This contradicts earlier optimism from regional leaders about a total cessation of hostilities.

Earlier, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on X that all parties, including the U.S. and Iran along with their allies, had agreed to an immediate ceasefire “everywhere including Lebanon and elsewhere.”

While some Israeli outlets, such as Ynet, initially suggested the truce would cover the Lebanese front, the Prime Minister’s clarification highlights a significant diplomatic friction point. The IDF is expected to continue its operations against Hezbollah targets despite the pause in direct strikes on Iranian soil.

The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group consisting of several Iran-backed armed factions, has announced the suspension of all military operations within Iraq and across the wider region for a period of two weeks.

The decision, detailed in a statement issued early Wednesday, directly follows the broader announcement of a suspension of hostilities between the United States and Iran. This synchronized de-escalation suggests a coordinated effort among regional actors to adhere to the temporary peace framework.

The group has been active since February 28, frequently launching attacks in tandem with the onset of U.S.-Israeli strikes against Iranian targets. Notably, the group previously claimed responsibility for the downing of a U.S. military refueling aircraft in mid-March, an incident the Pentagon attributed to non-hostile causes.

The move is seen as a critical component in ensuring the stability of the ceasefire, as it reduces the risk of proxy-led provocations that could undermine the upcoming diplomatic talks in Islamabad.

Following earlier reports of a de-escalation in the Gulf, Iran’s Foreign Minister has formalized Tehran’s willingness to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The move is contingent on the complete cessation of strikes against Iranian territory by the U.S. and its allies.

The minister confirmed that Iran is prepared to halt all military operations in the Gulf and against Israel as part of the broader diplomatic effort to stabilize the region during the two-week ceasefire window.

The statement, issued on behalf of the Supreme National Security Council, underscores a significant shift in Iran’s maritime posture. This development is expected to alleviate immediate concerns regarding global energy security and shipping lanes in one of the world’s most critical chokepoints.

The Indian-flagged tanker Jag Vasant transited through the Strait of Hormuz carrying liquefied petroleum gas © Punit PARANJPE / AFP

Global oil prices plummeted below $100 per barrel on Wednesday as markets reacted to the announcement of a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran.

Brent crude saw a sharp decline of $14.84, or 13.6%, falling to $94.43 a barrel. Similarly, West Texas Intermediate (WTI) slid $16.13, or 14.3%, to $96.82 a barrel as of 8:23 PM EDT.

The dramatic shift in pricing follows a critical pivot by President Trump just moments before a deadline that threatened the complete closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The waterway is essential to global energy stability, facilitating the transit of approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply.

Kittleson in Damascus, Syria on December 29, 2025. Shelly Kittleson via Instagram

Shelly Kittleson, the American journalist who was kidnapped by the Iran-aligned Iraqi armed group Kataib Hezbollah, has been successfully released.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the breakthrough, acknowledging the coordinated efforts of the Pentagon, the FBI, and the Iraqi Supreme Judicial Council in securing her freedom.

“We are relieved that this American is now free and are working to support her safe departure from Iraq,” Rubio said in an official statement.

Kittleson’s release is being seen as a positive humanitarian development amidst the broader regional diplomatic efforts and the recently enacted ceasefire.

Israel’s Channel 12 is reporting that the military has launched a series of new airstrikes targeting facilities inside Iran early on Wednesday morning.

The strikes reportedly took place shortly after President Trump’s ceasefire announcement. According to the network, the Israeli Air Force targeted missile-launching facilities in response to continued Iranian missile fire directed toward Israeli territory following the truce declaration.

While the IDF later stated it is “observing the ceasefire” and “containing the fighting” in accordance with political directives, it remains on high alert for any violations. The military also clarified that its operations in Lebanon against Hezbollah remain ongoing, as Israel maintains that the two-week pause does not extend to the Lebanese front.

This exchange of fire serves as a stark reminder of the fragile nature of the ceasefire as the region enters its first full day under the temporary agreement.

Authorities in Abu Dhabi are currently responding to a fire incident at the Habshan gas processing facility, according to a statement released by the Abu Dhabi Media Office early Wednesday morning.

The incident occurs as Gulf states remain on high alert, having recently activated regional air defense systems following threats of missile and drone attacks. The public has been advised to rely solely on official sources for information.

The Habshan complex, operated by ADNOC, is a cornerstone of the UAE’s energy infrastructure. As one of the world’s largest gas processing facilities, it has a massive total capacity of 6.1 billion standard cubic feet per day across its five plants.

Scenes of relief and jubilation have broken out across Tehran as citizens took to the streets following the official announcement of a comprehensive ceasefire.

Majid Asgaripour/WANA

Majid Asgaripour/WANA

People gather to celebrate in Tehran, April 8, 2026. Majid Asgaripour/WANA via Reuters

Majid Asgaripour/WANA

The spontaneous gatherings feature crowds waving flags and chanting for peace, marking a sharp contrast to the high-alert military posture held just hours prior. These images, captured by the West Asia News Agency (WANA), highlight a rare moment of optimism as the two-week diplomatic window begins.

In a major operational confirmation of the diplomatic breakthrough, a U.S. official has stated that military strikes against Iran have ceased.

According to a report by the New York Times, the halt in operations is in direct accordance with the two-week ceasefire agreement brokered through Pakistani mediation.

This pause in kinetic activity marks the first significant step toward implementing the de-escalation framework announced by President Trump earlier this evening, providing the necessary stability for upcoming negotiations in Islamabad.

While Iran has indicated that diplomatic talks are set to begin as early as Friday in Pakistan, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified that the United States has not yet officially agreed to the meeting.

“There are discussions about in-person talks, but nothing is final until announced by the President or the White House,” Leavitt stated during a press briefing.

The statement injects a note of caution into the rapidly developing situation, following the announcement of a two-week ceasefire. While communication channels remain open through intermediaries, the logistical and diplomatic details of direct engagement between Washington and Tehran appear to still be under deliberation.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced a monumental breakthrough, stating that Iran and the United States, alongside their respective allies, have agreed to a comprehensive ceasefire “everywhere including Lebanon and elsewhere, EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY.”

In an official statement, Sharif praised both nations for displaying “remarkable wisdom and understanding” throughout the intensive mediation process.

As part of the road map to a lasting peace, the Prime Minister has formally invited delegations from both Tehran and Washington to convene in Islamabad this Friday to begin formalizing the details of the 10-point proposal.

The news has sparked celebrations in Pakistan, which has positioned itself as the central diplomatic bridge during one of the most volatile periods in recent Middle Eastern history.

The United Arab Emirates has confirmed that its national air defense systems are currently engaging with a new wave of missile and drone attacks launched from Iran.

Local reports indicate that several interceptions have taken place over key areas, as the military remains on high alert. The escalation comes despite the recently discussed ceasefire framework, highlighting the extreme volatility of the security situation on the ground.

Residents in several emirates reported hearing loud explosions as defensive batteries responded to the incoming threats. There have been no immediate reports of casualties or significant damage to infrastructure.

Iran’s Foreign Minister has announced that its military forces will cease attacks across the Gulf region, provided that strikes by the U.S. and Israel against Iranian targets also come to a halt.

In a statement released early Wednesday, Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi confirmed that safe transit through the Strait of Hormuz would be made possible for a two-week period.

However, the ministry clarified that all maritime passage during this window must be conducted in close coordination with the Iranian armed forces. This development aligns with the two-week ceasefire framework currently being finalized between the parties.

High-stakes negotiations between the United States and Iran are scheduled to commence on April 10 in Islamabad, Pakistan, according to Iranian state media.

While the initial timeframe is set to coincide with the two-week ceasefire, officials noted that the talks could be extended should both parties reach a mutual agreement. However, Tehran maintained a cautious tone, with state outlets clarifying that the start of dialogue does not signal the immediate end of the war.

The Iranian government emphasized that it will only accept a formal conclusion to the conflict once specific details are finalized in strict accordance with its 10-point plan.

The upcoming summit in Islamabad is being viewed as the most significant diplomatic engagement between the two nations in years, as the world looks for a permanent resolution to the maritime crisis.

Iranian media outlets have disclosed the core components of the 10-point proposal submitted to the United States. The framework outlines a series of ambitious demands and structural changes to regional security.

According to the reports, the key pillars of the proposal include:

• Maritime Transit: Controlled transit through the Strait of Hormuz, coordinated directly with the Iranian armed forces.
• Cessation of Hostilities: A permanent end to the war against Iran and its allied regional groups.
• Military Withdrawal: The withdrawal of U.S. combat forces from all regional military bases.
• Economic Demands: The lifting of all primary and secondary sanctions, the release of frozen Iranian assets, and the payment of full compensation to Tehran.

While President Trump has previously called the framework a “workable basis” for talks, the inclusion of long-standing demands—such as the withdrawal of U.S. troops—is expected to be a major point of contention during the upcoming negotiations in Islamabad.

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council has officially submitted its 10-point diplomatic proposal to the United States through Pakistani intermediaries, according to state media reports.

The submission of the document follows President Trump’s earlier characterization of the framework as a “workable basis” for negotiation. In a significant logistical development, Tehran also confirmed that upcoming high-level talks with U.S. representatives will be hosted in Islamabad, Pakistan.

The choice of Islamabad as the venue underscores Pakistan’s pivotal role as a mediator throughout this crisis and marks the first concrete step toward a formal diplomatic dialogue aimed at resolving the maritime blockade and broader regional hostilities during the agreed-upon two-week ceasefire.

In a dramatic culmination of late-hour diplomacy, both Israel and Iran have reportedly agreed to the terms of a two-week ceasefire, effectively pulling the region back from the brink of total war.

According to CNN, Israel has agreed to the suspension of hostilities announced earlier by President Trump. The network cited a senior White House official confirming that the Israeli government will adhere to the pause in military operations.

Simultaneously, the New York Times reports that Iran has accepted the two-week ceasefire proposal brokered by Pakistan. Crucially, the agreement has received the formal approval of Iran’s new Supreme Leader, signaling a top-level commitment to the temporary truce.

The synchronized acceptance from both major combatants provides a 14-day window for intensive negotiations regarding the Strait of Hormuz and broader regional security, as the immediate threat of a catastrophic midnight escalation recedes.

In a follow-up to his announcement of a two-week suspension of hostilities, President Trump confirmed he has spoken with leaders in Pakistan and concluded that Iran’s 10-point proposal serves as a “workable basis on which to negotiate.”

The announcement marks a significant pivot from the severe rhetoric seen earlier on Tuesday, when the President warned that “a whole civilization will die tonight” if his ultimatums were ignored.

Trump clarified that the arrangement remains subject to Tehran’s agreement to pause its blockade of oil and gas supplies through the Strait of Hormuz. The waterway is a vital global artery, typically handling approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil shipments.

This temporary de-escalation is being viewed by international observers as a victory for the back-channel diplomacy spearheaded by Islamabad.

In a major shift toward de-escalation, President Trump has announced he will suspend all “bombing and attack of Iran” for a period of two weeks. The suspension is contingent upon Iran agreeing to the “complete, immediate and safe opening” of the Strait of Hormuz.

The decision comes after Trump earlier threatened to “wipe out” an entire civilization if the Strait was not opened by the midnight GMT deadline. Those comments drew sharp rebukes from global leaders and were condemned by critics as potentially genocidal.

This two-week window provides a critical breathing room for the diplomatic efforts led by Pakistan to find a long-term resolution to the maritime and regional crisis.

The Kuwaiti foreign ministry has strongly condemned the “storming and vandalism” of its consulate in Basra, Iraq, labeling the incident a serious breach of diplomatic norms.

Protesters outside the Kuwaiti consulate, Basra, Iraq, April 7, 2026. REUTERS/Mohammed Aty

Iraqi security forces try to disperse protesters in Basra, Iraq, April 7, 2026. REUTERS/Mohammed Aty

The unrest followed reports of a rocket attack originating from the direction of Kuwait that killed three people. In its response, Kuwait’s ministry stated that Iraq is responsible for any failure to protect diplomatic missions and clarified that Kuwait is not a party to the regional conflict.

The statement further emphasized that Kuwait will not allow its territory to be used as a launchpad for attacks on any neighboring country.

Iran’s Amirkabir petrochemicals plant was struck in an aerial attack on Tuesday evening, according to reports from the semi-official Mehr News Agency.

The deputy governor of Khuzestan province confirmed the strike, identifying the facility in Mahshahr as the target. Initial reports indicate that there have been no casualties resulting from the incident.

Separate reporting from Fararu News, citing the plant’s CEO, noted that two specific units within the complex were hit. Firefighting teams were immediately deployed to the site and have been working to extinguish the resulting blaze.

The Amirkabir facility is recognized as the largest petrochemical complex in the district, making it a significant strategic target as tensions remain high ahead of the midnight deadline.

U.S. stocks closed Tuesday’s session with mixed results as markets reacted to late-hour signs of potential progress in negotiations ahead of the midnight deadline.

All three major U.S. stock indexes recovered from steep earlier losses during the final hour of trading, following news that Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged President Trump to extend the Iran deadline by two weeks to allow diplomacy to continue.

“Investors are calibrating as they try to read into the president’s messaging and predict the degree to which he will follow through with some of his rhetoric,” said Matthew Keator, managing partner in the Keator Group. “How much of it is posturing, and how much of it is telegraphing what he will actually do?”

Market participants remain on high alert as the global community awaits a formal response from the White House regarding the proposed extension.

In a potentially significant breakthrough for diplomatic efforts, a senior Iranian official has indicated that Tehran is positively reviewing the request for a two-week ceasefire.

The proposal, which was spearheaded and formally presented by Pakistan, aims to halt hostilities to allow for more substantive negotiations between the involved parties.

While this marks a shift in tone from Tehran, the final outcome remains contingent on the response from the White House, as the international community awaits President Trump’s decision on whether to grant the extension.

The White House has confirmed it is reviewing the formal request from Islamabad regarding the ongoing crisis.

Earlier, we reported that Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has asked President Trump to grant a two-week extension to the Tuesday deadline to allow diplomatic efforts to reach a substantive conclusion.

In a brief statement to Reuters, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the development, stating: “The President has been made aware of the proposal, and a response will come.”

The timing of the response is critical as the 8:00 PM deadline looms, with global markets and regional players on high alert for any sign of a de-escalation or a shift in the U.S. stance.

Pope Leo XIV has labeled threats against the Iranian people as “unacceptable,” emphasizing that strikes targeting civilian infrastructure constitute a violation of international law.

The pontiff made an emotional plea for the world to remember the victims of the war, specifically mentioning the children killed in recent escalations. He urged citizens globally to contact their local representatives and demand a shift toward diplomatic peace efforts.

In recent weeks, Pope Leo has emerged as a sharp critic of the conflict, directly calling out President Trump and urging him to find an “off-ramp” to prevent further loss of life as the midnight deadline approaches.

Iranian media outlets have published an urgent warning directed at citizens and residents crossing specific bridges and roads within Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain.

According to the reports, those identified areas will be declared closed military zones starting at 11:00 PM local time (19:30 GMT) until further notice.

The move signals a significant expansion of the current friction beyond the immediate conflict zone, heightening concerns over regional infrastructure safety as the deadline for a potential diplomatic resolution rapidly approaches.

Senator Jack Reed has issued a blistering critique of President Trump’s recent rhetoric, stating that the president is putting both U.S. allies and troops in an untenable position.

“Threatening to eliminate a civilization is comparable to genocide. That is illegal, immoral, and should not be in the vocabulary of an American president. The ominous sentiment he’s suggesting would be a criminal act,” Reed said in an official statement.

Reed, a former army officer, expressed concern for military leadership: “Unfortunately, he’s put our professional military officers in a very difficult situation. They cannot carry out an illegal order.” He added that such threats are actively “setting back our chances of a peaceful ceasefire.”

This sentiment was echoed by a former legal advisor at the Department of State, who told Reuters that Trump’s language “could plausibly be interpreted as a threat to commit genocide” under international legal frameworks.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has formally requested that President Trump grant a two-week extension to the Tuesday deadline, citing progress in back-channel negotiations.

Pakistan has acted as the primary intermediary for proposals exchanged between Tehran and Washington. While PM Sharif maintains that efforts are “progressing steadily, strongly and powerfully,” there has been no public sign of a definitive compromise from either side.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment regarding the Prime Minister’s appeal.

Americans are less confident in the president’s decision-making on Iran than they were last year, according to a new Pew Research Center poll, with notable drops in confidence among both Republicans and Democrats.

About one-third of U.S. adults are “very” or “somewhat” confident Trump can make good decisions when it comes to U.S. policy toward Iran, according to the poll conducted in late March. That’s down from 44% in August. Roughly two-thirds of Republicans currently maintain high confidence, a significant decrease from 78% last year.

The poll also found about 7 in 10 Americans are “extremely” or “very” concerned about higher gas and fuel prices as a result of U.S. military action. Beyond economic impact, majorities of Americans also expressed worry about the potential for U.S. ground troops being sent into Iran, military casualties, and potential terrorist attacks on U.S. soil.

Lebanon was drawn into the conflict when Iranian-backed Hezbollah began to launch rockets at Israel on March 2 in support of Tehran. Since then, Israel has launched strikes on Lebanon and invaded the south in what has become the most violent spillover of the war.

Southern Lebanon. REUTERS/Stringer

Beirut. REUTERS/Mohamed Azakir

Beirut. REUTERS/Mohamed Azakir

The Lebanese health ministry stated that 1,461 people had been killed in Israeli attacks in Lebanon as of Sunday. Additionally, more than one million people have been displaced as the fighting continues to intensify.

At a vote in the U.N. Security Council, China and Russia vetoed a Bahraini resolution encouraging states to coordinate efforts to protect commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

The 15-member Security Council voted 11 in favor of the resolution, with two against and two abstentions. Despite the majority support, the vetoes from the permanent members blocked the measure.

“The draft resolution has not been adopted, owing to the negative vote of a permanent member of the Council,” Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani told the Council following the vote.

The parties involved in the Iran conflict must respect international law, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said on Tuesday.

“Canada expects all parties in this conflict, in any conflict, to respect international laws, the rules of engagement, and that means not targeting, certainly civilians or civilian infrastructure. And we urge all parties in this war to follow those responsibilities,” Carney told reporters.

Carney emphasized that this position has been communicated both publicly and privately as the international community watches the escalating tension ahead of the U.S.-imposed deadline.

The U.N. Security Council has failed to approve a resolution intended to protect commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

The deadlock at the UN comes as the maritime artery remains closed, further straining global energy markets and heightening the risk of direct military confrontation as President Trump’s deadline approaches.

Sen. Chuck Schumer responded to President Trump’s dire threat against Iran by calling on Republicans to vote against the war.

Schumer, a New York Democrat, has joined with others in his party in forcing votes on legislation that would halt Trump from ordering further attacks on Iran unless he received congressional approval. So far, though, just a few Republicans have voted to rein in Trump’s power to order the attacks.

Schumer said on social media that any Republican who declines to vote “against this wanton war of choice owns every consequence” of Trump’s actions.

Pakistan’s military on Tuesday voiced support for government efforts aimed at ending the conflict in the Middle East, stressing the need for restraint and dialogue while warning that recent attacks on Saudi Arabia risk undermining ongoing diplomatic initiatives.

The remarks came during a meeting of top commanders chaired by Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, according to a statement from the military.

It said the military strongly condemned recent attacks on Saudi Arabia’s petrochemical and industrial facilities, calling them an “unnecessary escalation” that could spoil “sincere efforts to resolve the conflict through peaceful means.”

The forum noted that Saudi Arabia’s restraint “despite grave provocations” had helped enable mediation and diplomatic options but warned that continued attacks risk damaging the “conducive environment” needed for negotiations.

The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military operations, described the strikes overnight as hitting targets previously struck and not directed at oil infrastructure.

The official didn’t clarify what was specifically hit on the island during the latest round of activity.

The U.S. has already struck various targets on the island, including air defenses, a radar site, the airport and a hovercraft base, according to satellite analysis by the Institute for the Study of War and American Enterprise Institute’s Critical Threats Project.

They had been holed up in French diplomatic premises there since their release from prison.

“Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris are free and on route toward French territory, after three and a half years of detention in Iran,” Macron tweeted.

The green light for them to leave Iran, long sought by France, signaled how Iran is differentiating between nations, treating some favorably and others as foes, in the context of the Iran war.

Macron has distanced France from the conflict, saying his country wasn’t consulted in advance about the U.S-Israel strikes and didn’t want the war. He also thanked Oman for playing a key mediation role in securing their departure.

That’s according to a White House official who wasn’t authorized to speak publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity.

The U.S. hit military targets on the island, the official said Tuesday. The strikes came hours ahead of a deadline Trump set for Iran to capitulate to his demands or face a major attack. He said Tuesday morning that “whole civilization will die tonight” if Iran did not make a deal.

Trump has threatened to deploy ground troops to seize critical oil infrastructure on the island, but experts warn such an operation would cost the lives of many U.S. military members and would not be a decisive move to ending the war.

The U.S. had earlier in the war struck several targets on the island, including air defenses, a radar site, an airport and a hovercraft base, according to satellite analysis by the Institute for the Study of War and American Enterprise Institute’s Critical Threats Project.

Earlier Tuesday, the semiofficial Mehr news agency put out a report saying there had been several explosions on Kharg Island, without elaborating.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance is visiting Hungary and has been speaking about the Iran war during a press conference with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.

Vance said the United States has largely accomplished its military objectives in Iran. He also stated that the U.S. feels confident it can get a response from Iran by President Trump’s Tuesday night deadline.

Vance is in Budapest to boost veteran nationalist leader Orbán’s campaign ahead of Hungary’s election on Sunday.

On Monday, Iran’s deputy sports minister, Alireza Rahimi, called on artists and athletes to form human chains at power plants across the country on Tuesday.

“We will stand hand in hand to say: Attacking public infrastructure is a war crime,” Rahimi said on X. The move appears to be a strategic effort to use civilian presence as a deterrent against threatened strikes on energy facilities.

Trump has just posted on his Truth Social platform:

Authorities in the UAE city of Sharjah say an administrative building of satellite telecoms operator Thuraya Telecommunications was attacked by an Iranian missile.

Sharjah Media Office said the strike injured two Pakistani nationals, who were taken to hospital. The incident marks a significant escalation in the targeting of civilian corporate infrastructure within the Emirates.

Reuters

Trump has threatened to rain “hell” on Iran if it doesn’t meet his Tuesday deadline.

“We have a plan, because of the power of our military, where every bridge in Iran will be decimated by 12 o’clock tomorrow night, where every power plant in Iran will be out of business, burning, exploding, and never to be used again,” Trump said during a press conference on Monday.

But dozens of international law experts have said those sorts of strikes could amount to war crimes.

Iran showed no sign of agreeing to U.S. President Donald Trump’s demand that it open the Strait of Hormuz by the end of Tuesday or suffer massive attacks on its civilian infrastructure.

Such attacks would be the biggest escalation yet of the war. A senior Iranian source told Reuters that Tehran had rejected a proposal conveyed by intermediaries for a temporary ceasefire.

As the clock ticked down on Trump’s deadline to unleash “hell”, global markets were largely frozen, hesitant to bet on whether Trump would follow through on his threats. Trump has given Iran until 8 p.m. in Washington to end its blockade of Gulf oil, saying he will otherwise destroy every bridge and power plant in Iran within four hours.