Israel and Iran ceasefire takes effect after deadly conflict
Updated
Updated · The Jerusalem Post · May 3
Israel and Iran ceasefire takes effect after deadly conflict
5 articles · Updated · The Jerusalem Post · May 3
The deal, announced on 7 April, followed fighting since 28 February that killed 12 Israeli soldiers, 23 civilians and 13 US troops, while injuring at least 7,693 people in Israel.
The conflict began after Israel and the US launched Operations Roaring Lion and Epic Fury, saying they aimed to create conditions for regime change in Iran.
Israeli strikes killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's defence minister and several IRGC generals, after which Iran fired ballistic missiles at Israel, Gulf states and US bases across the region.
How do ongoing missile attacks and internal crackdowns in Iran challenge the prospects for lasting peace and regional stability following the ceasefire?
As the Strait of Hormuz remains a global chokepoint, what are the risks if Iran and the US cannot reach a permanent agreement after the ceasefire?
With conflicting reports about Khamenei’s fate and Iran’s leadership in flux, how might power struggles shape the next phase of US-Iran negotiations?
May 2026 Middle East Ceasefire: Persistent Clashes, Hormuz Crisis, and Diplomatic Deadlock
Overview
The fragile U.S.-brokered ceasefire declared in April 2026 faces ongoing violations and deep disagreements, especially over Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz and Hezbollah's role in Lebanon. The conflict escalated after a deadly attack on an IRGC base and subsequent U.S.-Israeli strikes that killed Iran's top leaders, prompting Iran's missile retaliation and Hezbollah's attacks on Israel. These events triggered a blockade of the Strait by Iran and a U.S. naval blockade, causing a major global oil supply disruption and soaring prices. Mediation efforts led by Pakistan have stalled amid maximalist demands and mutual distrust, leaving the region at risk of renewed large-scale conflict and worsening humanitarian crises.