US President Donald Trump has announced a two-week suspension of bombing of Iranian energy infrastructure, agreeing to a “double sided ceasefire” contingent on Tehran agreeing to the “complete” and “immediate” opening of the Strait of Hormuz. The news prompted oil prices to drop by around 13% and shares to rise in early trading in Asia.
Israel has refused to include Lebanon, which it is currently invading, in the ceasefire.
Trump said Iran’s 10-point proposal delivered via Pakistan offers a “workable basis on which to negotiate.” He warned, however, that he would order devastating new airstrikes if no final deal is reached by the new deadline.
Tehran said the move represents a “historic and crushing defeat” for the US, claiming Washington has been forced to accept Tehran’s 10‑point plan as the basis for talks.
Iran’s Supreme National Security Council has announced that negotiations with the US will begin on Friday, April 10, in Islamabad, allocating a two‑week period that may be extended by mutual agreement.
Hellbound and Down 