WASHINGTON – A ceasefire intended to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East is facing immediate challenges, according to a CBC News broadcast Monday evening.

US President Donald Trump agreed to a last-minute truce with Iran, which is expected to last two weeks. However, reports of continued attacks from Iran have emerged from Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain since the ceasefire was announced.

Conflicting Reports and Strait of Hormuz

The Iranian state news agency claimed the Strait of Hormuz was closed to oil traffic, a claim the White House refuted. “That is completely unacceptable,” a White House official stated during a press conference, adding that traffic in the strait had actually increased. The US is demanding the immediate and safe reopening of the waterway, which is crucial for global energy supplies.

Lebanon and Nuclear Concerns

Disagreement also surrounds Lebanon, with Pakistani mediators stating it should be included in the ceasefire, while Israel continues airstrikes against Hezbollah targets. Over 250 people have been killed and at least 700 wounded in recent strikes on Beirut, according to Lebanese civil defense officials.

The US Secretary of War stated that the US remains committed to preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. He indicated a willingness to take further action, including military intervention, if Iran does not hand over its enriched uranium. “They will either give it to us voluntarily. We’ll get it. We’ll take it. We’ll take it out. Or if we have to do something else ourselves…we reserve that opportunity,” he said.

Gulf States’ Perspective

Mina Al-Araibi, editor-in-chief of The National in Abu Dhabi, told CBC News that while the ceasefire is a step towards de-escalation, it remains “incredibly fragile.” She noted that Gulf nations, while not seeking conflict, are concerned that the ceasefire may allow Iran to gain leverage, particularly regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Al-Araibi also highlighted the anxiety and uncertainty felt by residents in the region, despite the continuation of daily life.

In-person talks between US and Iranian representatives are scheduled to take place this weekend in Islamabad, Pakistan, led by J.D. Vance and Steve Witkoff on the US side.