US President Donald Trump has announced a ceasefire agreement with Iran, which includes toll-free shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The deal, confirmed by Iran's deputy foreign minister on Sunday, immediately ends hostilities between the two nations.

Trump stated on Truth Social: "The Deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete. Congratulations to all! I hereby fully authorize the toll free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and, simultaneously herewith, authorize the immediate removal of the United States Naval blockade. Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow!"

The strait has been largely closed since the US and Israel launched an assault on Iran on December 28. Trump hinted at a more comprehensive peace agreement to follow, writing: "This Great Deal will bring Peace and Security to the whole Region."

The announcement followed a post by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on X, who declared the peace deal reached. An official signing ceremony is scheduled for June 19 in Switzerland, with mediators including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey facilitating further talks.

International reactions were positive. Qatar's Foreign Ministry welcomed the agreement as "an important step towards consolidating sustainable peace." UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed readiness to support technical talks, hoping the reopening of the strait will stabilize energy markets. French President Emmanuel Macron praised the diplomatic effort and called for swift implementation.

US Vice President JD Vance hailed the deal as a potential "new era" in the Middle East, stating: "What the president has done is create the real space to transform that region. And now, hopefully a new era with the Iranians." Vance plans to attend the signing ceremony in Switzerland.

Source: www.aljazeera.com