Pakyong, April 8 -- In what could mark a turning point in one of the most volatile standoffs in recent memory, Iran and the United States have agreed to a two-week ceasefire - opening the door to direct negotiations scheduled to begin this Friday in Islamabad, Pakistan.

The agreement gives both sides a critical window to step back from the brink and explore whether a durable peace is within reach.

Iran's Supreme National Security Council officially confirmed the pause in hostilities, being careful to frame it as a temporary measure rather than a resolution. Simultaneously, Tehran released a comprehensive 10-point proposal that its leadership hopes will form the foundation for a permanent end to the conflict.

On the American side, Presi...