WASHINGTON/TEHRAN – Fears were growing that fragile US-Iran ceasefire could collapse and fighting could resume like recent weeks. But in a fresh diplomatic breakthrough, Washington and Tehran reportedly agreed to extend truce by another 60 days, following Islamabad backed diplomacy, and mediation efforts.
The reported agreement, cited by Turkish media and Pakistani government sources, comes as diplomatic efforts continue to address the disputes that brought Washington and Tehran to the brink of renewed confrontation.
The ceasefire extension is reportedly linked to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, under which Pakistan, along with other mediators, has been working to reduce tensions and keep negotiations between the United States and Iran alive. According to reports, Washington and Tehran have informed the mediators of their decision, suggesting that diplomatic channels remain active despite major differences between the two sides.
Instead of returning to direct confrontation, both sides will have additional time to negotiate over the issues at the heart of the crisis. The objective is not simply to keep the guns silent, but to use the pause to build a pathway toward a broader and potentially permanent agreement.
Among the most difficult issues on the negotiating table is Iran’s nuclear programme. Washington has long demanded restrictions and assurances regarding Tehran’s nuclear activities, while Iran has opposed measures it considers an infringement on its sovereignty. Alongside the nuclear issue, negotiations are also expected to address US sanctions, Iranian oil exports and restrictions affecting the country’s economy.
Another major concern is Hormuz, as renewed military confrontation in the region could threaten maritime traffic through the strait, creating immediate concerns for international shipping, energy supplies and global oil prices. This is one reason why the continuation of the ceasefire is being closely watched well beyond the Middle East.
For Pakistan, the reported agreement carries particular diplomatic significance. Islamabad has attempted to use its position to facilitate communication between Washington and Tehran and support efforts aimed at preventing another escalation. If the ceasefire extension holds, it could strengthen Pakistan’s diplomatic standing and demonstrate the potential value of its mediation efforts.
However, the development should not be mistaken for a final peace agreement. The most difficult questions between Washington and Tehran remain unresolved. The nuclear programme, sanctions, oil exports, regional security and maritime issues could all become potential obstacles as negotiations move forward.
The next phase will therefore be crucial. The extension gives both sides additional diplomatic space, but it also creates a test for the mediators. If Washington and Tehran can use the additional time to resolve their core disputes, the temporary ceasefire could become the foundation for a lasting settlement. If negotiations fail, however, the threat of renewed confrontation could quickly return.
