• The US and Iran have agreed to a two-week ceasefire following escalating tensions.
• The ceasefire includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing negotiations.
• Mixed reactions from US politicians highlight concerns over Iran's nuclear capabilities and accountability for past actions.

The United States and Iran have confirmed a two-week ceasefire beginning April 7, as mounting tensions threatened to escalate into all-out conflict. President Donald Trump announced the truce, which includes Iran reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz for shipping, while the two sides negotiate a lasting resolution in Islamabad, Pakistan. Trump characterized this deal as a significant victory for the US, with further talks anticipated to address substantive issues, according to SCMP and Channel News Asia.

Iran has reportedly accepted a "workable" 10-point plan, which includes demands for sanctions relief and the retention of its uranium enrichment capabilities. Although the specific details of the agreement are being negotiated, initial terms are being met with skepticism by some US lawmakers. Senator Lindsey Graham, a known advocate for a hardline approach, expressed caution regarding the agreement, emphasizing that any negotiations must not reward Iran for past aggressive actions in the Strait of Hormuz, as discussed in Al Jazeera and Channel News Asia.

Details of the ceasefire negotiations emerged with Iran's Foreign Minister, who confirmed the reopening of the Strait will provide safe passage for the next two weeks. The US indicated that Iran's domestic uranium enrichment would be closely monitored during this period. The key aspects of the negotiations include potential limits on Iran's missile program and its support for regional militant groups, but past US demands for these terms have not yet been detailed in the ceasefire agreement, according to reports from SCMP and Channel News Asia.

The involvement of Pakistan as a mediating force has been lauded, with Islamabad playing a crucial role in facilitating dialogues between the US and Iran. Pakistani leadership highlights their historical ties with Iran and strategic relations with the US, which positioned them uniquely to help ease tensions. The ceasefire is seen as a precursor to broader negotiations, with delegation talks scheduled to commence shortly in Islamabad, as stated by SCMP and Channel News Asia.

Reactions from US lawmakers reflect a mix of relief and skepticism towards the ceasefire. Many Democrats welcomed the truce but are pushing for accountability regarding the initiation of hostilities by the Trump administration. Critics argue that the ceasefire should not cloud the need for addressing the broader implications of the US's military strategies in the region, as emphasized by various political commentators in Al Jazeera and SCMP.