Pentagon chief says US-Iran ceasefire remains intactUS-Iran ceasefire remains intact despite recent clashes
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated on Tuesday that the ceasefire with Iran is still in effect, despite recent attacks by Iranian forces in the Strait of Hormuz and against the United Arab Emirates. Hegseth characterized the US operation to protect commercial shipping, called Project Freedom, as temporary and defensive, emphasizing that Washington is not seeking escalation.
US Defense Department
The Pentagon maintains that the ceasefire framework remains valid and that recent Iranian attacks fall below the threshold of a ceasefire violation. Defense Secretary Hegseth stated the US will defend commercial shipping aggressively but is not looking for a fight, and that Project Freedom is a separate, temporary operation focused on protecting innocent vessels from Iranian aggression.
Democratic Congressional Opposition
Senate Democrats argue that the Pentagon's interpretation of the ceasefire is legally questionable. Senator Tim Kaine contended that a ceasefire means no bombs are falling, and that a US blockade of Iranian movements still constitutes hostility, suggesting the administration is attempting to circumvent the 60-day War Powers Act deadline.
- Pakistan mediated the US-Iran ceasefire on April 8, 2026, after Iran rejected a 45-day proposal.
- Oman shares a maritime border with Iran at the Strait of Hormuz's eastern edge.
- Pete Hegseth authored books critiquing US military strategy in Iraq and Afghanistan.
US-Iran Ceasefire War
The United States launched military strikes against Iran on June 26, 2026, in response to a drone attack on a commercial cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a "foolish violation" of the 60-day ceasefire agreement signed just days earlier[2][4][14].
26 June, 09:35 PM
US launches strikes against Iran following commercial ship attack26 June, 04:47 PM
Trump calls Iran drone attack on cargo ship a ceasefire violation
