Joy and relief swept through the streets of Baghdad on Tuesday following the announcement of a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran, bringing a temporary pause to a conflict that had drawn Iraq into violence between pro-Iran armed groups and US forces.

The truce, effective from 8 April 2026, narrowly averted a major escalation, announced just minutes before a deadline set by President Donald Trump. Residents of the Iraqi capital took to the streets, waving flags, honking car horns, and embracing one another in scenes of jubilation.

Visuals of celebration

Key Terms of the Ceasefire

Strait of Hormuz Reopened: Iran has agreed to allow safe maritime passage through the strategic waterway for the duration of the truce, under coordination with its armed forces.

Suspension of Strikes: President Trump confirmed that planned strikes on Iranian infrastructure, including power plants and bridges, would be suspended for two weeks.

Mediation and Talks: The ceasefire follows diplomatic efforts led by Pakistan, with high-level US-Iran negotiations scheduled to begin in Islamabad this Friday.

Regional Scope: While Pakistani mediators noted the ceasefire extends to Lebanon, Israel has clarified its operations against Hezbollah will continue and are not part of the truce.

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For Baghdad, the announcement was a moment of rare celebration after months of tension and uncertainty. Street vendors reported record sales as families gathered in public squares, sharing food, music, and relief. Local leaders described the truce as a “breath of hope” for a region long scarred by conflict.