Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday his decision to suspend the bombing of Iran for a period of two weeks, contingent upon Iran's compliance with the "complete" and "immediate" reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Trump's declaration was made via a social media post shortly after he applied pressure on Iran to adhere to the reopening deadline for the Strait, set for 8 p.m. on the same day. He issued a stern warning, suggesting dire consequences if the deadline was not met, stating, "a whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again."
Trump confirmed the suspension of military actions on his Truth Social account, describing it as a "double-sided CEASEFIRE." He elaborated that the decision follows the achievement of military objectives and substantial progress towards a long-term peace agreement with Iran and broader Middle Eastern peace. The president emphasized that this temporary suspension hinges on Iran's agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz "completely, immediately, and safely," referencing discussions with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir as influential to his decision.
He also mentioned that the U.S. had received a 10-point proposal from Iran, which he considered a "workable basis" for continued negotiations. Trump expressed optimism, noting that most contentious issues had been resolved between the two nations, and the two-week suspension would facilitate the finalization of the agreement.
In his statement, Trump reiterated the significance of the negotiations, stating, "On behalf of the United States of America, as President, and also representing the Countries of the Middle East, it is an Honor to have this Longterm problem close to resolution."