US-Iran strike last-minute ceasefire, easing global tensions

The United States and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire just before a deadline set by Donald Trump, averting further escalation and allowing the temporary reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

After weeks of intense conflict involving the US and Israel, Iran said it would begin talks with Washington in Pakistan on Friday. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed safe passage for ships through Hormuz for the duration of the truce.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the ceasefire would take effect immediately, with indications that fighting could also pause in other areas, including Lebanon.

The agreement came after heavy US and Israeli strikes on Iranian infrastructure and weeks of retaliatory attacks across the region. Israel, led by Benjamin Netanyahu, had intensified operations against Iranian-linked targets.

Following the truce announcement, oil prices fell sharply and Asian stock markets rallied, reflecting easing concerns over global energy supply disruptions.

Despite the breakthrough, uncertainties remain over a longer-term deal, as Iran continues to demand sanctions relief and regional concessions, while tensions and sporadic violence persist across the Middle East.