US says it agreed with Iran to 'stand down' after strikes

The United States has announced an agreement with Iran to "stand down" after a series of escalating strikes, according to a U.S. official. This de-escalation aims to restore the free passage of vessels through the critical Strait of Hormuz and pave the way for renewed peace negotiations.

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vessels will now be able to move through the waterway "freely"

The recent hostilities saw Iran strike a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting retaliatory strikes by the U.S. on Iranian bases. Iran responded with strikes on U.S. bases in Kuwait and Bahrain, though the U.S. reported no casualties or damage. This exchange occurred despite a memorandum of understanding signed on June 17, which included a commitment to "immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts" and guaranteed safe passage for commercial vessels for 60 days.

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immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts

Adding to the regional instability, the U.S. also mediated a framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon aimed at lasting peace. However, this ceasefire is also under threat due to ongoing fighting between Israeli forces and Hezbollah. The leader of Hezbollah has rejected the agreement, accusing the Lebanese government of undermining sovereignty. The Israeli army subsequently struck a Hezbollah tunnel in southern Lebanon, which it claimed contained hundreds of weapons, with prior notification to the U.S.

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best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels with no charge for 60 days