US President Donald Trump has raised concerns over the effectiveness of the ongoing ceasefire linked to the Iran conflict, alleging that Iran is not adhering to agreed terms regarding the flow of oil through the Strait of Hormuz. In a social media post, Trump said Iran was doing a “very poor job” in allowing oil shipments. He warned against reports of Tehran charging fees on tankers passing through the crucial waterway.
The White House has reiterated its support for keeping the Strait of Hormuz open as part of the ceasefire arrangement, while opposing any attempt by Iran’s military to impose tolls on international shipping.
Meanwhile, in a significant development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has authorised direct negotiations with Lebanon. The talks aim at disarming Iran-backed Hezbollah and exploring the possibility of normalising relations between the two countries. However, Mr. Netanyahu clarified that there is no ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, and said Israeli forces will continue operations against Hezbollah until security is restored in northern Israel.
According to reports, the proposed talks are expected to take place next week in Washington. The discussions are likely to involve senior diplomatic representatives from both sides, though Lebanon has not yet officially responded.
The ceasefire in the wider Iran conflict, which has paused weeks of missile and drone attacks, remains fragile. Tensions persist over Iran’s control of the Strait of Hormuz, its enriched uranium stockpile, and its regional military activities.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that the decision to accept the ceasefire was taken unanimously by the country’s leadership and approved by the Supreme Leader. He described the move as a strategic step, not a sign of weakness.
Despite ongoing disagreements, there have been no fresh reports of missile strikes or military action involving Iran, the United States, or Israel since the ceasefire came into effect.
