U.S. and Iran Agree to Two-Week Ceasefire; Iran to Reopen Strait of Hormuz
The United States and Iran have agreed to a two-week ceasefire, with Iran committing to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, following mediation by Pakistan.
The United States and Iran have agreed to a two-week ceasefire, with Iran committing to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, following mediation by Pakistan. President Donald Trump announced the agreement on Tuesday evening, stating that the ceasefire is contingent upon Iran's immediate and safe reopening of the strategic waterway.
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed the agreement, indicating that safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz will be coordinated with Iran's armed forces during the ceasefire period.
The ceasefire follows over five weeks of conflict that have significantly impacted the region and global energy markets. The Strait of Hormuz is a vital corridor through which approximately 20% of the world's oil supply passes.
International reactions have been largely positive. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun welcomed the ceasefire, emphasizing that violence is not an effective means of resolving problems between nations. Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi expressed relief, hoping the development leads to a permanent agreement to end regional conflicts.
Despite the ceasefire, challenges remain. Shipping experts caution that it may take longer than the two-week period to clear the backlog of vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts estimate that only a fraction of the stranded ships will be able to transit during the ceasefire, leaving many still awaiting passage when the agreement expires.
The situation remains fluid, with ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a lasting resolution to the conflict.