A Pakistan-brokered two-week ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran is under strain as Tehran issues new demands, including war reparations and U.S. military withdrawal. The truce, agreed on condition that Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz, is critical for global energy flows but remains fragile amid regional tensions. China’s diplomatic role and potential strategic gains add another layer of complexity to the crisis.
Ceasefire terms and immediate risks
The U.S. and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire on April 7, brokered by Pakistan and supported by China, requiring Tehran to allow safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. In return, the U.S. and Israel paused military operations. However, Iran has since threatened to restrict passage again and demanded war reparations and a U.S. military withdrawal, citing Israeli actions in Lebanon, putting the truce at risk.