The United States and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire Tuesday night, pulling back from military escalation just 90 minutes before President Donald Trump's deadline to launch massive strikes against Iranian civilian infrastructure.
The Pakistan-brokered deal pauses a six-week conflict that has killed thousands and triggered a global energy crisis. At its center lies the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly 20 percent of the world's oil and gas passes.
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
Donald Trump, US President — Radio Free Europe
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed Tehran will allow safe passage of vessels during the truce under coordination with Iranian armed forces. Iran and Oman plan to charge transit fees earmarked for reconstruction, according to Iranian media.
Both sides claimed victory. Trump said the US had "already met and exceeded all military objectives" while Iran's Supreme National Security Council declared "nearly all the objectives of the war have been achieved."
Frames the ceasefire as a last-minute diplomatic success while emphasizing the precarious nature of the agreement. Highlights expert analysis questioning the sustainability of the deal and Iran's compliance with maritime access conditions.