US-Iran Deal Ends War That Killed Thousands, Strait of Hormuz to Reopen Friday
A peace agreement between the United States and Iran has halted a conflict that left thousands dead and exposed the limits of American military power, with the Strait of Hormuz set to reopen on Friday under Iranian control [173005][173211].
The deal, announced by US President Donald Trump on his 80th birthday, brings an immediate and permanent end to military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon [173005][173211]. The agreement resets the situation to exactly where both sides were 24 hours before the war began, but with thousands of lives lost [173211].
Key terms include the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz within 30 days under Iranian arrangements, the lifting of the US naval blockade on Iranian ships within 30 days, and the release of $24 billion in frozen Iranian funds over 60 days [173005]. The United States will also suspend oil sanctions, with broader sanctions relief to be discussed within the next 60 days [173005]. Nuclear program negotiations have been postponed, with both sides given 60 days to discuss the fate of Iran’s highly enriched uranium [173005].
The formal signing ceremony is scheduled for Friday in Switzerland, according to Pakistan, a key mediator [173005][172795]. However, the deal faces serious obstacles. Israel, which was not included in the negotiations, launched strikes on Beirut’s southern suburbs on Sunday, targeting what it said were Hezbollah positions [173005][172795]. Trump criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for showing “lack of judgment” [173005].
Iranian officials have confirmed that a Memorandum of Understanding includes a condition requiring Israel to stop military operations in Lebanon and withdraw all troops from the country [171650]. The Israeli military has continued airstrikes in southern Lebanon despite the ceasefire, striking towns such as Kfar Tebnit and Upper Nabatieh [172951][168294].
US Vice President JD Vance said the deal lowers tensions and supports energy stability, but warned that threats from Hezbollah continue in the region [172870]. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the agreement, expressing hope for a “sustainable final agreement” [172949].
The price of Brent crude oil fell more than $3 per barrel after the announcement, and Asian stock markets rose [173005]. However, experts warn it could take months for oil shipments to return to normal levels [173005].