politics
U.S. and Iran agree to pause strikes after weekend exchanges near Strait of Hormuz
Both sides halted military action after a series of strikes that began with an Iranian drone attack on a commercial vessel. A senior U.S. official said technical talks remain on track and vessels can move freely.
Washington ExaminerAudio version
Tap play to generate a narrated version.
Developing·Limited corroboration so far. This page will refresh as more sources emerge.
U.S. and Iranian forces stopped strikes after a weekend of attacks that began Thursday when Iran launched drones at a commercial ship in the Strait of Hormuz. The United States responded with strikes on Iranian targets near the strait. Iran then targeted U.S. bases in Kuwait and Bahrain, prompting additional U.S. strikes.
Ceasefire and talks A senior U.S. official told reporters Sunday night that both sides had agreed to stand down for now. The same official said technical talks are continuing on all areas of the memorandum of understanding and that vessels can move freely. Iran has not issued a public response as of Monday morning.
Background on the MOU The current round of strikes followed an earlier memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran that addressed administration of the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian Foreign Affairs Minister Abbas Araghchi said at a news conference Sunday in Pakistan that interference would complicate the situation and delay reopening of the waterway.
The Institute for the Study of War reported that the IRGC Navy stated on June 27 that U.S. strikes violated the ceasefire and would halt diplomatic processes.
