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In a significant and somewhat unexpected development, Iran’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Seyed Abbas Araghchi announced that Iran will temporarily allow maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz—a move seen as a potential step toward easing tensions in the region.

Speaking on behalf of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, Araghchi said the decision comes after diplomatic efforts led by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, whom he thanked for their “tireless efforts” to help bring the conflict closer to de-escalation.

So here’s what’s on the table: Iran is giving a two-week window where ships can safely pass through the Strait—one of the world’s most critical oil routes—but it won’t be completely unregulated. Passage will still require coordination with Iran’s armed forces and will depend on technical limitations on the ground.

At the same time, Iran made its position clear—this opening is conditional. If attacks against the country stop, Iran says its armed forces will also halt their defensive operations. In short, it’s a “you pause, we pause” kind of arrangement.

This comes as both Iran and the United States appear to be inching toward possible negotiations. According to Araghchi, discussions may be based on a 15-point proposal from the U.S. and a 10-point framework from Iran, which has reportedly been acknowledged as a starting point by Donald Trump.

For now, the temporary reopening of the Strait signals a fragile but notable opportunity for diplomacy. Whether this two-week window leads to lasting peace—or just a brief pause—remains to be seen.