White House deems two-week ceasefire “a victory for the United States”

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt described the two-week ceasefire as “a victory for the United States,” highlighting the US military’s role in the conflict with Iran. She stated on social media, “In 38 days, we have achieved and surpassed our main military goals.” Leavitt emphasized that the success of the military gave President Trump and his team the ability to pursue tough negotiations, which have now opened the door for a diplomatic solution and lasting peace. She also mentioned that President Trump successfully reopened the Strait of Hormuz. “Don’t underestimate President Trump’s ability to promote America’s interests and negotiate peace,” Leavitt remarked. Earlier, US President Donald Trump announced he had agreed to a two-week ceasefire with Iran, just under two hours before his deadline for Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face significant attacks on its civilian infrastructure. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council confirmed it had accepted the ceasefire as well. Trump’s social media post was a notable instance of him stepping back from harsh threats, after warning Iran earlier that “a whole civilization will die tonight” if his demands were not met. Trump explained that the ceasefire deal depends on Iran stopping its blockade of oil and gas shipments through the strait, which is responsible for about one-fifth of global oil transport. “This will be a two-sided CEASEFIRE!” Trump declared on his Truth Social platform. “The purpose of this is that we have already met and exceeded all military goals and are making significant progress towards a definite Agreement for Long-term PEACE with Iran and PEACE in the Middle East.”