The United States and Iran have reportedly agreed to “stand down” following a series of military strikes over the past few days that threatened to unravel the ceasefire agreement signed less than two weeks ago. A US official confirmed to the BBC’s US partner CBS News that vessels will now be able to move through the Strait of Hormuz “freely,” and added that renewed talks aimed at ending the war will continue. The two nations have also agreed to meet in Doha, Qatar, on Tuesday for further discussions, according to another US official. Iran has not commented on the reports that it has agreed to halt strikes in the strait.
Background of the Ceasefire Agreement
On 17 June 2026, the US and Iran signed a 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which included an “immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts.” As part of the MoU, Iran had agreed to use its “best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels with no charge for 60 days.” However, the ceasefire, which was less than two weeks old, came under threat in recent days due to renewed attacks by both sides.
Renewed Hostilities
Strikes resumed on Thursday, 25 June 2026, after an Iranian projectile hit a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz. In retaliation, the US launched a series of strikes on Iran over the weekend, hitting multiple targets. US Central Command (Centcom) described the strikes as a direct response to the “continued aggression” against commercial shipping. On Saturday, 27 June 2026, Iran responded with strikes on US bases in Kuwait and Bahrain. The US has stated that none of these attacks reached their targets, and there were no casualties or damage.
Impact and Next Steps
The agreement to “stand down” de-escalates tensions that had threatened to reignite a broader conflict. The US official emphasized that vessels can now transit the Strait of Hormuz freely, a critical waterway for global oil shipments. The upcoming talks in Doha are expected to build on the MoU and address ongoing concerns. The international community has welcomed the move, though Iran’s silence on the agreement leaves some uncertainty. The situation remains fluid, with both sides urged to adhere to the ceasefire terms.
