KATHMANDU: Iran has agreed to a two-week ceasefire and will enter negotiations with the United States starting Friday in Islamabad, following a conditional pause in attacks announced by US President Donald Trump.

Tehran’s decision comes after Trump said Washington would suspend military actions if Iran fully reopens the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

Iran’s foreign minister Seyed Abbas Aragechi confirmed that safe passage through the key waterway would be ensured for two weeks in coordination with Iranian armed forces.

The breakthrough follows diplomatic efforts by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who urged Trump to extend the deadline for a deal and called on Iran to guarantee uninterrupted access through the Strait.

Islamabad is now set to host the high-stakes talks aimed at easing tensions in the Gulf region.