-1775630436418.webp)
- By Vaidika Thapa
- Wed, 08 Apr 2026 05:54 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
As the deadline set by United States President Donald Trump for Iran approached on Tuesday, the world watched closely, with uncertainty of what would happen next. Trump’s ultimatum to reopen the Strait of Hormuz had already raised fears of a major escalation in the Middle East. However, in a sudden and unexpected shift, just about 90 minutes before the deadline Trump announced a two-week ceasefire with Tehran.
What Happened In Final 90 Mins Before The Deadline?
The announcement left everyone to wonder what could have changed in the eleventh hour that Trump pulled back from his planned military action. Earlier in the day, almost 12 hours before the deadline (5:54 pm), he had posted a message on social media, indicating that Iran could face total destruction if it failed to comply.
Trump said, “A whole civilisation will die tonight, never to be brought back again. I don’t want that to happen, but it probably will.” His stark warning triggered speculation online, with netizens discussing whether the US was preparing for nuke attacks, airstrikes on infrastructure, or even a push for regime change.
Trump’s deadline to Iran was set to end at 8:00 pm ET (around 5:30 am IST on Wednesday). There was no post on Truth Social, suggesting what Trump could be planning. However, at 4:02 am on April 8, just about one hour and 30 minutes before the deadline, Trump announced a two-week ceasefire on the condition that Iran reopen the strait.
Why Did Trump Announce A Ceasefire?
This development marked a significant turn from his earlier threats, bringing relief to those who feared military escalation in the region. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he agreed to stop the attacks after speaking with the Pakistan PM. He also indicated that he is considering multiple peace proposals sent by Iran.
ALSO READ: How Pakistan Played A Big Role In Pausing Iran-US War?
He wrote, “Based on conversations with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, of Pakistan, and wherein they requested that I hold off the destructive force being sent tonight to Iran, and subject to the Islamic Republic of Iran agreeing to the COMPLETE, IMMEDIATE, and SAFE OPENING of the Strait of Hormuz, I agree to suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks. This will be a double sided CEASEFIRE!”
He further stated that the US had already achieved its military objectives and come far in securing peace in the Middle East. "We received a 10 point proposal from Iran, and believe it is a workable basis on which to negotiate. Almost all of the various points of past contention have been agreed to between the United States and Iran, but a two week period will allow the Agreement to be finalized and consummated,” Trump added.