Capitals, June 15 (SANA) The United States and Iran have reached a framework agreement to end hostilities and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but Israel has quickly distanced itself from the understanding, insisting it is not bound and will continue its military operations in Lebanon.
Israeli officials, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, stressed that the US-Iran agreement “does not obligate Israel in any way,” calling for continued military operations against Hezbollah and rejecting any withdrawal from areas under Israeli control in southern Lebanon.
Defense Minister Israel Katz warned Iran that Israel would respond with “full force” if Tehran launches an attack in response to Israel’s military campaign in Lebanon.
Pakistan-brokered deal leaves details for later
The agreement, brokered by Pakistan, calls for a comprehensive halt to military operations between the two sides, the lifting of the US naval blockade on Iranian ports, and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to international navigation. However, the provisions remain a general framework, with details to be finalized in subsequent negotiations over approximately 60 days, including the future of Iran’s nuclear program and verification mechanisms.
US President Donald Trump said the agreement would lead to “the return of normal oil flows,” adding that ships have already begun leaving the Strait of Hormuz. Vice President JD Vance spoke of a two-phase verification mechanism to ensure Iran’s compliance, according to CNN.
Tehran, however, insists that any final commitments are tied to Washington’s implementation of its pledges, particularly regarding lifting sanctions and releasing frozen funds, with a continued state of “deep mistrust” between the two sides, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei told Reuters.
Lebanon emerges as early test
Although the Pakistani mediation has stressed that the agreement covers the cessation of operations “on all fronts, including Lebanon,” implementation of this clause appears to be the most sensitive. While sources linked to Hezbollah have announced the cessation of operations, Israel has affirmed its continued military presence in southern Lebanon, making the Lebanese arena an early test of the agreement’s ability to stabilize the ceasefire.
Lebanese authorities have warned displaced people against quickly returning to border villages amid continued intermittent shelling and an unstable decline in the pace of operations.
Global markets react to Hormuz reopening
Economically, the Strait of Hormuz remains the agreement’s most significant focus, with about one-fifth of global oil and gas supplies passing through it. Following the announcement of its gradual reopening, oil prices fell sharply by about 4 to 5 percent, according to global market data.
However, shipping and insurance companies remain cautious amid concerns over naval mines and unresolved security measures, meaning full restoration of navigation depends on technical and security arrangements that could take weeks.
Iran has announced its intention to impose fees on “navigation services” in the strait, reflecting its continued sovereign approach to the waterway despite the agreement, according to Iranian official media.
Formal signing set for Friday in Geneva
The US and Iran are preparing to formally sign the agreement on Friday in Geneva. The current ceasefire appears to be in a gradual stabilization phase as technical and political details are finalized over the coming weeks. Despite existing differences, the agreement is seen as an initial step toward reducing tensions and opening the door to broader regional arrangements.
KhA
