How long can US-Iran ceasefire last? Expert weighs in
US President Donald Trump (photo: Getty Images)
A ceasefire between the United States and Iran could last for a long time, although the two countries still face many potential complications and challenges ahead, Israeli military expert David Sharp said in a comment to RBC-Ukraine.
"If there is a desire on the part of the United States and Iran, then it (the ceasefire - ed.) will last quite a long time. There are various components of the memorandum between Iran and the United States separately, but the fighting in Lebanon is also connected to this. I think there will still be many different kinds of incidents and complications here," Sharp said.
According to him, for now, for example, new "rules of the game" are being defined between the sides in Lebanon.
"Israeli forces are in the security zone (in southern Lebanon - ed.), and there is a demand from Iran for them to withdraw. On the other hand, there is supposedly an understanding that if there is no permanent agreement, which is supposed to be concluded within 60 days, then Israel will not withdraw," the expert explained.
The expert noted that low-intensity clashes are still ongoing in Lebanon. He added that this will affect the overall situation and also suggested that Iran may use this as leverage against the United States.
"We will be watching the announcements, so to speak. Because there is significant potential here for tensions, all kinds of statements, and threats. But for now, the intensity in Lebanon has sharply decreased," Sharp emphasized.
The agreement between the United States and Iran
On the night of June 18, US President Donald Trump announced the signing of a framework agreement with Iran. Although the official signing of the document had been expected on Friday, the parties reached an agreement earlier and signed it remotely.
After the agreement was reached, Trump ordered a complete halt to maritime operations in Iranian ports and coastal waters.
After signing the framework agreement, the United States and Iran will have 60 days to prepare and agree on a final peace treaty. One of its key topics will be Tehran's nuclear program.
