US and Iran Agree to Halt Attacks and Hold Emergency Talks in Qatar on Strait of Hormuz

The United States and Iran have agreed to cease their mutual attacks and will hold urgent negotiations on Tuesday in Doha, Qatar, focusing on the escalating conflict over freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Two senior US officials told Axios that both sides decided to stop all kinetic activities, including offensive military actions, to allow free movement of vessels through the strategic waterway. The technical talks are expected to cover all aspects outlined in a memorandum of understanding, with the aim of de-escalating tensions.

Originally, the meeting was planned to take place in Switzerland to address Iran's nuclear program, but due to recent escalations, the venue was shifted to Qatar and the priority changed to resolving the maritime crisis. The US technical team will be led by Nick Stewart. The White House has not yet issued an official statement regarding the agreement.

This development follows a US strike on Iranian targets near the Strait of Hormuz, which was a response to an Iranian attack on a commercial vessel off the coast of Oman. US President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Iran's regime after the wave of US attacks, stating on Truth Social that there might come a time when restraint ends and military means will be used to complete their mission, warning that if that happens, Iran would cease to exist.