US, Israel, Iran Agree to Ceasefire Before Trump’s Deadline

The White House says the two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran will continue only if the Strait of Hormuz remains open to oil tanker traffic.

Iran temporarily halted tanker movement through the strategic waterway after Israeli strikes in Lebanon, according to Iranian media reports. Only two oil tankers have reportedly crossed the strait since the ceasefire took effect.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important oil routes, carrying a significant portion of global crude supplies. Any disruption can quickly impact international fuel prices and markets.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Donald Trump’s strong warnings to Iran helped secure the ceasefire agreement and the reopening of the strait. Trump had warned Tehran of severe consequences if it failed to return to negotiations.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Wednesday that Israel still has military objectives against Iran and is prepared to return to fighting if needed.

He also stated that Israeli strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon are not part of the US-Iran ceasefire.

The White House confirmed that Vice President JD Vance will lead a US delegation to Islamabad for talks with Iranian representatives. The first round of discussions is expected this weekend.

US officials also confirmed that high-level talks were held with the government of Chinese President Xi Jinping during the ceasefire negotiations.