U.S. and Iran Agree to Halt Strikes as Talks in Doha Set to Address Strait of Hormuz

Maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has dropped sharply, remaining well below pre‑war levels despite repeated U.S. assurances that vessels can transit freely. Energy analytics firm Kpler reported that only 124 commodity vessels passed through the strait between Thursday and Sunday, a figure that previously represented a single day’s traffic before the conflict.

The slowdown highlights the uncertainty facing global shipping operators amid renewed U.S.–Iran tensions. Sources familiar with the matter confirmed that technical teams from both countries are scheduled to meet in Doha in the coming days to discuss implementation of the memorandum of understanding. Communication channels to de‑escalate incidents remain open, and officials say technical talks will continue.

The fragile ceasefire brokered in October 2025 is already showing strain. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, nearly 21,000 people were expected to be medically evacuated under the agreement, but fewer than 7,500 have been allowed to leave. Dr. Ahmed al‑Faraa, head of pediatrics at Nasser Hospital, told Al Jazeera that the health system continues to deteriorate despite expectations of increased aid and medical supplies.

A senior U.S. official told Axios that Washington and Tehran have agreed to halt direct attacks against each other and will meet in Doha on Tuesday to address disputes over the Strait of Hormuz. “We decided to stop all the kinetic activity,” the official said, using military terminology for strikes and assaults. Two additional sources confirmed the planned meeting, noting that the venue was shifted from Switzerland to Qatar after recent escalations refocused the agenda on maritime security rather than Iran’s nuclear program.

The Doha talks are seen as pivotal in stabilizing the ceasefire, restoring confidence in shipping lanes, and preventing further deterioration in regional security.

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