US-Iran Ceasefire Expires as Both Sides Brace for Prolonged Conflict

The US-Iran ceasefire Memorandum of Understanding expired on August 18, 2026, having collapsed after fighting resumed. Agreed in June, the 60-day deal aimed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz — carrying a fifth of global oil and LNG shipments — and negotiate a final settlement. Little progress was made. Iran now signals offensive operations; Trump claims Iran was defeated.