A tentative de-escalation in Middle East tensions has emerged after Donald Trump announced a conditional two-week ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran.
The ceasefire, which is tied to the reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, comes amid weeks of heightened hostilities that raised global fears of a broader regional conflict.
Trump stated that the truce would hold if maritime traffic is allowed to resume through the waterway, a key global oil transit route.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, confirmed Tehran’s willingness to halt hostilities, but only if attacks against Iran cease. He added that the proposed agreement includes broader conditions, such as compensation and other terms under a multi-point framework.
Despite the announcement, uncertainty remains over the scope of the ceasefire. Israel has stated that the agreement does not extend to neighbouring Lebanon, where clashes with the Iran-backed group Hezbollah have intensified. This contradicts claims by Iranian officials and Shehbaz Sharif, whose government played a mediating role, that Lebanon is included in the deal.
Tensions persisted even as the ceasefire was announced, with reports of continued military activity across parts of the region. Israel issued fresh evacuation orders in southern Lebanon, underscoring the fragile and uncertain nature of the truce.
Global reactions have been cautiously optimistic. Keir Starmer welcomed the development, pledging the United Kingdom’s support to sustain the ceasefire and pursue a long-term diplomatic resolution. He is expected to visit Gulf states to engage regional leaders on maintaining stability.
Meanwhile, the announcement has had an immediate impact on global markets. Oil prices dropped sharply following news of the ceasefire and the anticipated reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, easing concerns over supply disruptions. However, analysts warn that prices may remain elevated due to lasting damage to energy infrastructure and continued geopolitical uncertainty.
The agreement follows intense pressure from Washington, with Trump earlier warning of severe consequences if Iran failed to reach a deal. While both sides have signaled readiness for negotiations, observers note that significant differences remain, raising questions about whether the ceasefire will lead to a lasting peace or merely pause the conflict.