US-Iran Conflict: Will the Ceasefire End the Hostilities?

Iran and the United States have agreed to a two-week ceasefire, with preparations underway for talks to be held in Pakistan. The Iranian delegation has arrived in Islamabad, and the US has included Vice President J.D. Vance in the negotiations. Vance stated that Iran has not behaved “in good faith” and has attempted to “mislead,” emphasizing that the US will not accept such conduct. Meanwhile, Iranian officials have called for a ceasefire in Lebanon before talks begin, adding uncertainty to the status of the negotiations.

On Wednesday, Israel launched its heaviest attack in Lebanon, reportedly causing over 300 deaths. Iranian authorities strongly condemned the assault on Lebanon, accusing Israel of violating the ceasefire. However, Israel and the US have maintained that Lebanon will not be included in the ceasefire agreement. Prime Minister Netanyahu instructed his cabinet on Thursday to initiate direct talks with Lebanon, and Beirut has also expressed readiness to engage in negotiations.

During the ceasefire period, Iran has agreed not to impede maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. This ceasefire declaration comes 40 days after the US and Israel began their operations against Iran. Former President Trump noted on ‘Truth Social’ that the ceasefire agreement had been reached because “we have achieved a decisive agreement with Iran for long-term peace and lasting stability in the Middle East.”

Pakistan facilitated the mediation leading to this ceasefire. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the agreement, stating, “Both sides have shown remarkable wisdom and understanding and have engaged constructively to advance the goals of peace and stability.” United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called on all parties to “open the path to a long-term and comprehensive peace in the Middle East.”