Valley congress members react to US, Iran ceasefire

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The common theme among Central Valley congress members is a hope that this two-week ceasefire will lead to lasting peace.

How President Trump has handled the situation and how other nations are responding are being viewed differently.

Tension, uncertainty, and constant changes surrounding the conflict with Iran have many asking what comes next and when.

"I think it's clear that the president has changed his position over the last five weeks. Initially, it was a regime change," said Congressman Jim Costa.

Since February 28, joint U.S. and Israeli strikes have targeted Iran, leading to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for oil.

On Easter Sunday, President Donald Trump gave Iran until Tuesday night to reopen the Strait, or he said he would strike the country's power plants and bridges.

The two sides announced a deal 90 minutes before the deadline.

"I mean, if there's an opportunity for a ceasefire, I think that needs to be the approach, and that should always be our first choice," said Congressman David Valadao.

Valadao says while the ceasefire is a positive step, he has not agreed with the president's approach of issuing dire threats.

Congressman Vince Fong is also hoping for a resolution.

"Our goal, as stated before, is to ensure that Iran can no longer be a force for instability, that they can no longer ever have a nuclear weapon," said Fong. " We need to make sure the Strait is open so that the world economy can function and have some stability."

Stability that many haven't felt with rising prices at the pump and on grocery shelves.

Congressman Costa says he's seen the ripple effects firsthand and warns that long-term progress depends on global cooperation.

"If we are successful in this ceasefire and turn it into a peace agreement, but it's only going to happen if our allies are at the table with us supporting our efforts," said Costa.

Despite the ceasefire in place, the U.S. and Iran have conflicting positions on what the ceasefire entails since Israel launched strikes in Lebanon.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says negotiations are underway with Iran.

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