'Death to compromisers': Iranians fill Tehran streets protesting US ceasefire deal

“Death to America, death to Israel, death to compromisers!” rang out across the streets of Tehran as pro-government demonstrators reacted furiously to the announcement of a two-week ceasefire between Iran and the United States.

Crowds burned American and Israeli flags, news agency AP reported.

The truce, agreed at the eleventh hour on Tuesday, came just as US President Donald Trump stepped back from threats of massive escalation. He described the deal as a “total and complete victory” for Washington, with the United States pausing attacks in exchange for Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial artery for global oil supplies. Tehran confirmed it would allow safe passage through the waterway for two weeks, though details of enforcement remain unclear.Despite the diplomatic breakthrough, the mood on Iran’s streets told a different story. The chants against “compromisers” reflected growing unease among regime loyalists over any perceived concession to Washington. Many had expected an all-out confrontation after weeks of escalating strikes that have killed thousands and shaken the region.Iran has simultaneously pushed forward a 10-point proposal aimed at ending the war, including demands for sanctions relief, continued uranium enrichment, and the withdrawal of US forces from the Middle East.

While Trump initially called the plan “workable”, he later dismissed it, highlighting the fragile and often contradictory nature of the negotiations.Mediation efforts led by Shehbaz Sharif have brought both sides to the table, with talks expected in Islamabad later this week. However, divisions persist not only between Washington and Tehran but also among their allies. Israel has backed the pause in US strikes but insisted the ceasefire does not extend to its ongoing conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon, contradicting earlier claims from Pakistan.Even as leaders speak of diplomacy, violence has not fully subsided. Missile alerts sounded across parts of the Gulf, and both Iran and Israel continued limited strikes after the announcement. The US military has halted offensive operations but remains on defensive footing in the region.Global reactions have been cautiously optimistic, with the United Nations urging all sides to honour the truce.