In a significant step towards de-escalation in the Middle East, a ceasefire brokered by the United States has taken effect between Israel, Lebanon, and Iran. The agreement follows weeks of intense conflict that began on February 28th, resulting in thousands of casualties and a global economic downturn triggered by a surge in oil prices.
President Donald Trump expressed optimism about the ceasefire and the potential for a lasting peace agreement, hinting at a possible trip to Islamabad, Pakistan, where the deal may be signed. He acknowledged the role of both military action and diplomatic pressure in bringing Iran to the negotiating table.
“We’re going to see what happens. But I think we’re very close to making a deal with Iran,” Trump told reporters.
Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have both welcomed the ceasefire, with President Zardari affirming Pakistan’s support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and regional stability. Prime Minister Sharif expressed hope that the ceasefire would pave the way for sustainable peace.
President Asif Ali Zardari has welcomed the Lebanon ceasefire as a step towards de-escalation & regional stability, reaffirming Pakistan’s support for Lebanon’s sovereignty & ongoing efforts to reduce US-Iran tension to achieve lasting peace in West Asia.
— The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) April 17, 2026
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian praised Pakistan’s mediation efforts, particularly the role of Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Iran has also called for the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied areas in southern Lebanon, the release of all prisoners, and the return of displaced persons to their homes.
However, the ceasefire is already facing challenges. Lebanon’s National News Agency reported a violation, with an ambulance hit in Kounine, near the Israeli border. The Lebanese army has reported other “acts of aggression” by Israel and has cautioned citizens against returning to their villages in Southern Lebanon.
Despite the violations, Hezbollah has stated it will keep its “finger on the trigger” in case of further Israeli breaches of the truce, indicating a cautious approach to the agreement.
French President Emmanuel Macron expressed full support for the ceasefire while also voicing concern about ongoing military operations. He called for the safety of civilian populations and urged Hezbollah to renounce its weapons and Israel to respect Lebanese sovereignty.
Negotiations on key issues, particularly Iran’s nuclear program, are ongoing. The US has proposed a 20-year suspension of all nuclear activity by Iran, while Tehran has suggested a halt of three to five years. Discussions also involve the removal of highly enriched uranium from Iran and the lifting of international sanctions.
Pakistani CDF Field Marshal Asim Munir’s recent visit to Tehran is reported to have made breakthroughs on “sticky issues,” raising hopes for a second round of talks. A Pakistani security source indicated that the US is offering to lift sanctions and unfreeze Iranian assets in exchange for a deal.
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical factor, with the US seeking to ensure its reopening as part of any agreement.
President Trump has directed Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine to work with Israel and Lebanon towards lasting peace. He also mentioned the possibility of inviting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to the White House for talks.
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