Trump administration announces end to US-Iran war; Strait of Hormuz reopening details unclear
The US and Iran have agreed to an immediate end to their war, with a peace deal expected to be signed on Friday. However, uncertainty remains over the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the inclusion of Lebanon.
US-Iran War Ends with Peace Deal
Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi confirmed early Monday an agreement for an “immediate end” to the US-Iranian war, with Lebanon also included in a peace deal due to be signed on Friday. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the agreement on Sunday, stating both sides would declare “the immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts.” Regional officials said Qatari mediators traveled to Tehran on Sunday to finalize the terms of a memorandum of understanding (MOU).
However, uncertainty remains. Questions surround whether Israel will end its attacks on Hezbollah in Lebanon, and Iranian hardliners have voiced opposition, viewing the deal as capitulation to the US. Republican Senator Lindsay Graham expressed concern that Iran’s view of the agreement differs from what the American negotiating team claims.
Strait of Hormuz: Toll-Free or Under Iranian Terms?
President Donald Trump claimed the deal was “complete” and authorized the “toll-free opening” of the Strait of Hormuz, along with the immediate removal of the US naval blockade. He declared, “Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow!” However, Iran’s Mehr state news reported that the MOU calls for the reopening of the strait within 30 days under “Iranian arrangements.” The deal is expected to be signed in Switzerland on Friday.
Other Trump Administration News
In other developments, Trump reportedly told Russian President Vladimir Putin during a Sunday phone call that he is prepared to help end the war in Ukraine. The call lasted about an hour and was described as “friendly and frank” by Putin adviser Yuri Ushakov. The UFC announced it will pay bonuses to fighters in cryptocurrency issued by Trump’s family business World Liberty Financial at a White House MMA event. Vice President JD Vance said he will discuss a potential 2028 presidential run with his wife after the 2026 midterms.
