U.S.-Iran cease-fire terms face immediate strain after Israel launched airstrikes in Lebanon targeting Hezbollah, which Tehran claims violates the agreement. The Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint, with U.S. demands for open shipping conflicting with reports of reduced maritime activity. Vice President JD Vance’s upcoming trip to Pakistan highlights Washington’s diplomatic pivot, but Iranian officials accused the U.S. of undermining trust through military actions and drone incursions.

Regional stability hangs in the balance as Gulf economies brace for economic fallout.