Global Relief: US & Iran Ink Tentative Deal to End War, World Reacts

Top Summary

• What happened: The United States and Iran have announced a tentative deal to end the US-Israel war on Iran, which includes Israeli attacks on Lebanon. This agreement also initiates a 60-day ceasefire for further negotiations on sanctions relief.
• Why it matters: This breakthrough aims to end months of conflict that have resulted in thousands of deaths and caused global energy prices to soar, offering a potential path to lasting regional peace and economic stability.
• What changes: The agreement promises the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, vital for global shipping, and a likely decrease in oil prices. A 60-day period of de-escalation and diplomatic engagement begins.
• Who is affected: The deal directly impacts Iran, the US, Israel, and Lebanon, alongside global energy markets and shipping routes, with significant implications for international trade and regional security.

The United States and Iran have reportedly reached a tentative deal to end the US-Israel war on Iran, which encompasses Israeli attacks on Lebanon. This announcement has been met with significant international relief and hopes for an enduring peace.

US President Donald Trump confirmed the agreement on his Truth Social platform, stating,

"The deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete. Ships of the world, start your engines. Let the oil flow!"

 

The accord is described as a major breakthrough following months of intense fighting that has claimed thousands of lives and driven global energy prices sky-high. Markets reacted positively, with stock markets soaring and oil prices falling after the news broke.

Ceasefire and Future Negotiations

Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, Kazem Gharibabadi, indicated that a broader agreement, specifically covering sanctions relief for Iran, would be developed during a 60-day ceasefire period.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that the accord is scheduled to be signed on Friday in Switzerland. This marks a critical step towards de-escalation and long-term resolution.

Global Welcome for Diplomatic Breakthrough

World leaders widely welcomed the announcement, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic solutions. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres lauded the deal as a

"critical step" towards a "peaceful settlement of the conflict."

 

Nations like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Turkiye, Bangladesh, Germany, and Canada all expressed strong support. They commended the commitment to resolving differences through negotiation.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan posted on X,

"I view the agreement reached between the United States and Iran as an important development for establishing peace and tranquillity in our region, and I welcome it with satisfaction."

 

Pakistan's Prime Minister Sharif also thanked Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye for their significant contributions to securing the agreement.

Urgent Calls for Strait of Hormuz Reopening

A key focus of international reactions was the immediate need to restore toll-free freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. This critical waterway is essential for regional stability and the global economy.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated,

"This is essential for regional stability and the global economy. It opens the door to broader negotiations on peace and security in the Middle East."

 

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron also reiterated urgent calls for the strait's reopening, with Starmer offering support for mine clearance operations if required.

Israel's Strong Opposition and Warnings

Despite global relief, Israel voiced strong opposition to the agreement. Defence Minister Israel Katz declared that Israel would not withdraw from land it occupies in Lebanon, citing "the main lesson from the events of October 7."

Katz explicitly warned Iran, stating Israel would strike with

"great force" if it attacks Israel over its strikes in Lebanon.

This position was conveyed to US President Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

 

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich condemned the deal as

"bad for Israel and for the entire free world,"

vowing to continue the campaign against Tehran to "topple the regime ourselves and in creative ways" and ensure Iran never possesses nuclear weapons.

 

Conditions for Lasting Peace

Several nations emphasized the need for robust implementation and addressing underlying issues. The United Kingdom stressed the importance of commitments regarding Iran's nuclear programme being "robust, verifiable and fully implemented."

France called for "the determined efforts of the Lebanese authorities" to restore state sovereignty, crucial for Lebanon's stability. Canada highlighted that any durable ceasefire must address the "pervasive threat of Iran’s nuclear program."

Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz welcomed the agreement as a path to a "reinvigorated global economy and a more secure Middle East," but added,

"⁠It is crucial to implement it with determination."

 

What to Watch Next

All eyes will now be on the official signing of the accord in Switzerland on Friday, followed by the commencement of the 60-day ceasefire period. Subsequent negotiations for comprehensive sanctions relief for Iran will be critical.

The international community will closely monitor the swift and full implementation of all terms, particularly the restoration of freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and verifiable progress on Iran's nuclear program. Israel's continued stance and potential actions will also remain a significant point of attention.