US and Iran reach ceasefire

After threatening to destroy Iranian civilization, President Trump backed down just ninety minutes before a self-imposed deadline to announce a temporary truce.

The agreement, brokered with significant mediation from Pakistan and influence from China, requires Tehran to relinquish its blockade of the vital Strait of Hormuz.

While markets have rallied on the news, military leaders warn that US forces remain 'locked and loaded' should the diplomatic window fail to produce a permanent settlement.

Negotiations are scheduled to begin this Friday in Islamabad to address long-term issues including uranium enrichment and regional security.