What is behind U.S.- Iran ceasefire?

This episode of InFocus by The Hindu examines the sudden two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran, announced after a 40-day war that began on February 28, 2026. The ceasefire, brokered by Pakistan, marks a dramatic U-turn by President Donald Trump, who previously threatened to 'erase Iranian civilization' and demanded unconditional surrender. The episode analyzes how Trump’s aggressive rhetoric gave way to diplomacy, driven by the strategic imperative to reopen the Strait of Hormuz—now a central objective despite not being part of the original military goals. Iran, despite suffering massive infrastructure and leadership losses, has emerged with a strengthened domestic narrative of resistance against 'imperial powers,' while the U.S. faces mounting pressure due to global economic fallout from the war. Pakistan’s role as mediator is highlighted, leveraging its strong ties with both Washington and Tehran, as well as its own economic vulnerability to energy disruptions. The ceasefire is not universally accepted—Israel has refused to extend it to Lebanon, creating a critical rift. The episode explores the potential for future negotiations on Friday in Islamabad, with Iran demanding a lasting peace, full sanctions relief, and security guarantees, while the U.S. seeks nuclear and missile concessions. The path forward remains uncertain, but the possibility of a broader regional reset—possibly involving China or Russia as guarantors—offers a fragile but plausible way out. Key takeaways include: 1) The Strait of Hormuz’s reopening is now the central geopolitical prize, not regime change; 2) Iran’s narrative of resistance against Western imperialism remains powerful domestically; 3) Pakistan’s diplomatic success stems from its balanced relationships and self-interest; 4) Israel’s refusal to halt operations in Lebanon threatens the ceasefire’s integrity; 5) A lasting deal may require third-party security guarantees; 6) Trump may frame the ceasefire as a victory despite incomplete objectives; 7) Iran’s nuclear program remains a potential bargaining chip; 8) The war has reshaped regional power dynamics, with Iran asserting strategic resilience.