Gulf diplomats confirmed a ceasefire between HEZBOLLAH and Israel mediated by Qatar, the US and Iran.

French foreign minister Barro said on the 19th that as a UN Security Council permanent member France must consent to any lifting of UN sanctions on Iran. He said the US and Iran have signed a memorandum of understanding and that France will agree to lift UN measures only after Iran makes "major concessions" on its nuclear programme, ballistic missiles, regional security and activity in the Strait of Hormuz. Barro reiterated France's consistent opposition to any war against Iran, saying such a conflict would lack clear objectives and violate international law. He also urged Israel and HEZBOLLAH to respect ceasefire provisions in the memorandum and called on the US to press Israel.

UK 10-year government bond yield rose 5 bps intraday, breaching 4.80%.