Deal at ending Iran conflict signed

By Nathan Morley

U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding with Iran aimed at ending the conflict.

The signing had been scheduled for Friday in Switzerland, but the timetable was moved forward to allow for an earlier reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

According to the released text, the United States, Iran and their allies agree to end the war and halt all military operations on every front — including Lebanon — immediately and permanently.

The parties also pledge not to initiate future hostilities, refrain from threats or the use of force, and guarantee Lebanon’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Oil prices fell after the announcement, with Brent crude dropping about 1.5% to $78 a barrel.

The conflict began on Feb. 28, when Israel and the United States launched joint strikes on Tehran and other Iranian cities. Iran responded with waves of missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and U.S. bases across the region.

In southern Lebanon, Israeli forces carried out new strikes on Wednesday, despite renewed criticism from Trump over Israel’s actions there. 

Violence in the area has eased since the memorandum was announced, though at least five people have been killed by Israeli fire since the deal became public.

Elsewhere, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said Thursday he is cutting all contact with EU foreign‑policy chief Kaja Kallas after she reportedly compared Israel to apartheid‑era South Africa.