A last-minute agreement has paused a major escalation in the Middle East.
The United States and Iran have agreed to a two-week ceasefire, easing tensions after weeks of conflict.
The US Iran ceasefire over the Strait of Hormuz was announced just hours before a planned U.S. military strike, marking a sudden shift toward diplomacy.
Under the agreement, Iran will allow the safe reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route responsible for a significant share of the world’s oil supply. In return, the United States has suspended planned military attacks, creating space for negotiations.
The breakthrough followed diplomatic efforts led by Pakistan, which pushed for a temporary ceasefire to allow talks to move forward.
U.S. President Donald Trump described the development as a step toward peace, stating that discussions during the two-week period could lead to a more permanent resolution.
Despite the progress, uncertainty remains. Israel has expressed support for the US-Iran ceasefire but clarified that it does not apply to its ongoing operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon. Meanwhile, both Washington and Tehran are expected to participate in further talks, with Pakistan inviting both sides to negotiations in Islamabad.
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital route for global energy supply, and its reopening has already influenced markets, with oil prices reacting to the reduced risk of disruption.
The US-Iran ceasefire over the Strait of Hormuz offers temporary relief, but the outcome of upcoming negotiations will determine whether lasting stability can be achieved in the region.