US and Iran agree two-week ceasefire

US and Iran agree two-week ceasefire

Author: BBC World Service April 8, 2026 Duration: 48:28

The US and Iran have agreed a two-week ceasefire and as part of the agreement Iran says it will reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Both sides have claimed victory, with the US defense secretary saying it "offers chance at real peace".

Also in the programme: Despite the ceasefire, Israel has continued pummelling what it says are dozens of command centres belonging to Hezbollah, Iran's proxy force in Lebanon; and we'll hear more about the impact of powerchair football for participants with life-limiting disabilities.

(Photo shows U.S. President Donald Trump at a press conference at the White House in Washington, D.C. on 6 April 2026. Evan Vucci/Reuters)


Each day, the team at the BBC World Service brings the world into focus with Newshour. This isn't just a summary of headlines; it's a deep, considered exploration of the events shaping our moment, built on the BBC's global network of correspondents and reporters. You'll hear from the people making the news and those affected by it, with conversations that provide essential context and challenge assumptions. The analysis goes beyond the surface, unpacking the political, social, and human dimensions of stories from every continent. Tuning into this daily podcast means joining a thorough, informed examination of international affairs, where complex issues are given the time and clarity they demand. It's a reliable, authoritative source for anyone looking to understand not just what is happening around the globe, but why it matters. The pace and depth are designed for listeners who want to move past the soundbite and grasp the interconnected narratives defining our time.
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