U.S. and Iran agree to 2-week ceasefire

The United States and Iran have agreed to a two-week ceasefire, averting a wider conflict after President Trump imposed a deadline for Iran to meet his demands. Trump announced the deal, calling it a "big day for World Peace!" and indicated that the U.S. would help with traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, allowing Iran to begin reconstruction. The agreement, facilitated by Pakistan, involves a suspension of bombing for two weeks, contingent on Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz. This development led to a significant drop in oil prices and a surge in stock markets. However, Israel disputed that the ceasefire included Lebanon, continuing its attacks on Hezbollah, despite Pakistan's Prime Minister stating the truce covered "Lebanon and elsewhere." Iranian leaders hailed the ceasefire as a victory, claiming their 10-point peace proposal was largely accepted, while also issuing warnings against any violations. The U.S. journalist Shelly Kittleson was also released after being kidnapped by an Iran-backed Iraqi militant group. Negotiations are ongoing regarding Iran's nuclear enrichment and ballistic missile program, with Israel seeking assurances from the U.S. on these issues.