Iran arrests six over alleged enemy links

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will hold talks with the UK’s allies on his trip to the Middle East on ensuring that the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz remains permanent, the UK government said.

Starmer welcomed the ceasefire agreement reached between the United States and Iran overnight, saying it would bring a moment of relief to the region and the world.

The talks are part of wider diplomatic efforts to prevent renewed disruption in the strategic waterway and preserve the fragile truce.

Germany will take appropriate measures to help ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, Chancellor Friedrich Merz said, as Berlin welcomed a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran.

Merz said the ceasefire must be a crucial first step toward a lasting peace.

He thanked Pakistan for brokering the agreement and said the aim in the coming days must be to negotiate a permanent end to the war through diplomatic channels.

He added that Germany supports diplomatic efforts and remains in close contact with the United States and other partners.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran on Wednesday and urged efforts toward a lasting peace in the Middle East.

In a statement, his spokesperson said the UN chief called on all parties to comply with international law and adhere to the terms of the ceasefire.

He urged the sides to use the truce as a step toward a broader and more durable resolution to the conflict.

Bahrain urged people to move to the nearest safe place after warning sirens sounded on Wednesday.

In a post on X, the country’s interior ministry told people to remain calm and seek shelter.

US President Donald Trump said the United States would help manage shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said Washington would assist with the “traffic buildup” in the strategic waterway.

“A big day for World Peace! Iran wants it to happen, they’ve had enough! Likewise, so has everyone else! The United States of America will be helping with the traffic buildup in the Strait of Hormuz,” he wrote.

He said there would be “lots of positive action” and added that Iran could begin reconstruction after weeks of conflict.

“Big money will be made. Iran can start the reconstruction process. We’ll be loading up with supplies of all kinds, and just ‘hangin’ around’ in order to make sure that everything goes well,” the US president added.

He described the moment as a potential turning point for the region and said he was confident the situation would improve.

“Just like we are experiencing in the U.S., this could be the Golden Age of the Middle East,” Trump said.