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The US Central Command says all military blockade enforcement efforts have ceased. (AP file photo)The United States has lifted its maritime blockade on all vessels entering and leaving Iranian ports and coastal areas following President Donald Trump’s directive, the US Central Command said in a social media post on Thursday. US forces have stopped all blockade enforcement operations and are no longer restricting maritime traffic. However, US naval ships will remain in the region to monitor compliance and ensure the agreement remains in effect, the Central Command added.
Both sides claim victory: Hours after the signing of the Iran-US peace deal, both Washington and Tehran were seen claiming victory over the agreement. While US President Donald Trump slammed critics and pointed at a ‘record high’ stock market to prove his point, his Iranian counterpart Masoud Pezeshkian shared images of the MoU and said it is a “reflection of the voice of a nation that did not trade its dignity and independence for any threat or pressure”.
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Israel to continue southern Lebanon operations: Despite the signing of the Iran-US peace deal, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said it will continue its operations in southern Lebanon. In a post on X, the IDF said its forces are deployed 10 km inside the Lebanese territory. “IDF soldiers will continue to remove threats and strengthen the defense of Israel’s northern residents.”
Iran wants to retain some ballistic missiles: Just hours after signing a peace agreement with Iran, US President Donald Trump said Iran should be allowed to retain some ballistic missiles, arguing that several countries in the region, including Saudi Arabia and Qatar, possess similar weapons. Speaking in France, Trump suggested that ballistic missiles were not the main concern in the ongoing negotiations, stressing that nuclear weapons remained the bigger issue.
Oil markets respond: The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, through which a share of the world’s oil and gas supplies passes, helped ease fears of disruption in energy markets. Oil prices fell in early trading, with both Brent crude and US West Texas Intermediate declining by more than 1% following the agreement, Al Jazeera reported.
Follow The Indian Express Global Desk’s live coverage for the latest updates from the Middle East, the diplomatic corridors of Europe, and the evolving legal battles in Washington.
Live Updates
Oil prices drop on prospect of more supply via Strait of Hormuz
Crude prices are declining as the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to oil tankers following the signing of the US-Iran MoU signals an influx of market supply.
Brent crude futures dropped by 54 cents, or 0.68 percent, to $78.31 per barrel as of 01:46 GMT.
Vance not going to Switzerland tonight; plans for Iran talks not finalised: White House
We have a statement from a White House spokesperson confirming that the US vice president will not be leaving tonight for Switzerland to hold negotiations with Iran.
“As the Vice President said at his press conference, the plans for the upcoming technical talks have not been finalized, and the US delegation has been prepared to depart at the first available opportunity,” the spokesperson said.
Iranian president welcomes Qatar’s role in facilitating US-Iran deal
Iran’s president has praised Qatar’s role in helping the two countries reach the MoU during a phone call with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
Masoud Pezeshkian said Qatar had created a “conducive environment for negotiations”, according to a statement released by his office, adding that the agreement had been made possible with the support of Qatar, Pakistan and other Islamic countries.
Iran’s Ghalibaf says Tehran won’t tolerate US breaches of MoU
Iran’s chief negotiator and speaker of parliament, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, says Tehran will not tolerate breaches of the MoU by Washington.
“In the event of bad faith, breach of contract, and excessive demands by the opposing side, we have no hesitation in delivering a crushing response to the enemy,” Ghalibaf said in a post on X.
Mojtaba Khamenei backs direct US talks, warns Iran will not yield to 'enemy'
ranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei on Thursday endorsed direct negotiations with the United States, in a statement delivered via text message read on Iran's state broadcaster IRIB, marking his first public reaction to the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed a day earlier by President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to end the war between the two countries.
Khamenei confirmed he had authorised the agreement despite holding a different view on the deal, saying Trump had "out of desperation, resorted to various forms of pressure and leverage to bring about this outcome."
The full text of the message of Imam Sayyid Mojtaba Khamenei, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, addressing the Iranian nation regarding the Memorandum of Understanding between the presidents of Iran and America, June 18, 2026 pic.twitter.com/9nSD2NfkVe
— Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei (@MKhamenei_ir) June 18, 2026
Trump envoy tells lawmakers Iran will invite IAEA to inspect its nuclear sites
Iran will invite the UN's nuclear watchdog agency to inspect its nuclear sites and begin work on identifying and uncovering the locations of Tehran's enriched material, Trump envoy Steve Witkoff told US lawmakers in a private briefing.
The private briefing on Thursday was described by two people familiar with the conversation who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity to share the closed-door details.
The White House did not directly respond to questions about the invitation.
But White House spokeswoman Olivia Wales said the agreement requires Iran to "commit to renounce their nuclear ambitions in writing".
JD Vance tells Israel it cannot kill its way to security, backs Iran deal
United States Vice President JD Vance on Thursday directed pointed criticism at Israel after senior Israeli ministers rejected the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed a day earlier by President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to end the US-Iran war.
Speaking in an interview with The New York Times, Vance responded to objections from far-right Israeli ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir, who have opposed any agreement that stops short of dismantling Iran’s military and nuclear capabilities entirely.
Iran announcing control of Strait of Hormuz on day one of 60-day period
There are very clear points in that statement by the Supreme National Security Council about the administration of the Strait of Hormuz, at least during the next 60 days before the signing of a final agreement.
Basically, there will be no fees, and that’s as per clause number five of the MoU.
No fees will be collected, but vessels have to submit requests to an administration called the Persian Gulf Strait Administration, and that administration is tasked with processing those requests and giving guidance to those ships and clearance to go ahead and cross the strait.
Iraq oil fields ready to resume exports, minister says
Iraqi Oil Minister Basem Al-Abadi says the country’s oil fields are ready to resume extraction operations, with exports expected to return gradually to their previous levels, the Iraqi News Agency (INA) reports.
“The oil fields are ready to resume extraction operations,” Al-Abadi said, adding that the “return to normalcy would take place incrementally until previous production rates were reached”.
Security threat level in Hormuz Strait reduced to moderate
The Joint Maritime Information Center says the maritime security threat level in the Strait of Hormuz has been reduced to moderate.
Earlier this week, the centre had downgraded the threat level to ships transiting the strategic waterway from “severe” to “substantial”.
Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei endorses direct negotiations with the US
Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtab Khamenei endorsed direct negotiations with the U.S. late Thursday in a statement read by state media.
“It is obvious that the face-to-face negotiations that will be held in the future will not mean accepting the enemy’s opinion,” he said.
It was Khamenei’s first reaction to the deal recently reached between Iran and the U.S. to end hostilities.
The supreme leader has not been seen in public since he was wounded in a strike at the start of the war.
AP
US sanctions Hezbollah-linked Lebanese officials
The US imposed sanctions on a group of Hezbollah-linked Lebanese officials, and members of a business network overseen by Alaa Hassan Hamieh. Included in the sanctions are Sleiman Antoine Frangie, the leader of the Lebanese Marada Movement and Mahmoud Qamati, deputy head of Hezbollah’s political council.
The US alleges that the men use their influence to obstruct Lebanon’s peace process and delay the disarmament of the militant group.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said his agency will “hold accountable those who enable the group to undermine the Lebanese state and threaten prospects for lasting peace.”
AP
Trump rejects claims of $300 billion Iran payment, says US achieved ‘victory’
US President Donald Trump has dismissed reports claiming that Washington would make a $300 billion payment to Iran, calling the claim “fake news”. Trump said the agreement would instead bring benefits to the United States, including lower oil prices, market gains and what he described as a major success for the country. He also accused critics of spreading “propaganda” while pointing to economic indicators as evidence of progress.
US lifts maritime blockade on Iran, keeps naval presence to monitor agreement
The United States has lifted its maritime blockade on all vessels entering and leaving Iranian ports and coastal areas following the President’s directive. US forces have stopped all blockade enforcement operations and are no longer restricting maritime traffic, while American naval ships will remain in the region to monitor compliance and ensure the agreement remains in effect.
https://platform.x.com/widgets.jsToday, U.S. forces lifted the blockade on all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports and coastal areas, in accordance with the President's direction. American forces are not impeding the transit of vessels to or from Iranian ports. All U.S. military blockade…
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) June 18, 2026
Vance on Israeli critics of Trump's Iran deal: 'Might not want to attack ally'
U.S. Vice President JD Vance excoriated Israeli critics of the U.S.-Iran interim peace agreement, warning Thursday, "I might not be attacking the only powerful ally that I have anywhere left in the entire world."
Speaking to reporters from the White House, Vance said that President Donald Trump was "the only head of state in the entire world who is sympathetic to the nation of Israel at this moment in time," and chastised Israeli cabinet members that the majority of the Jewish State's defensive weapons were provided through U.S. funding.
"The problem for Israel is not Donald J. Trump and anybody in Israel who thinks their biggest problem is the President of the United States needs to wake up and smell the reality of the situation that country is in," Vance said. Reuters
White House sends text of interim US-Iran agreement to US Congress
The White House provided a copy of the interim U.S.-Iran agreement to the U.S. Congress on Thursday, according to a copy of the document seen by Reuters, a day after U.S. President Donald Trump signed an interim deal with Tehran to end the war. Reuters
Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth slams NATO allies for no access to Europe bases during Iran war
Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth has slammed his NATO allies at a roundtable meeting over defence spending and what he says was a failure to provide US forces access to bases in Europe to launch attacks on Iran. Hesgeth also announced a review of the US military presence in Europe. — Al Jazeera
US warns it could resume military action if Iran fails to follow deal commitments
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said Washington is prepared to restart military operations and restore a blockade against Iran if Tehran does not fulfil its obligations under the US-Iran agreement.
Speaking after a meeting with NATO defence ministers in Brussels, Hegseth said the US would respond if Iran fails to follow through on its commitments and could reimpose what he called an “ironclad blockade.”
Vance criticizes Israel 'freakout' over Iran deal in New York Times interview
U.S. Vice President JD Vance criticized Israel for a "weird panic" and "freakout" over the agreement struck between the U.S. and Iran, in an interview released on Thursday as the Trump administration sought to tamp down criticism of the deal. Israeli officials across the political spectrum, including some of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's allies, have criticized the agreement, saying it did not address their concerns over Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile programs and would tie down Israel's military operations against the Iran-backed Hezbollah militia in Lebanon.
"There is this weird panic almost in the Israeli system that I've picked up on where they assume that everything that is contemplated that is good for Iran will happen — but that will happen without the Iranians changing any behavior," Vance said in an interview with the New York Times. Reuters
Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif, Iran President Pezeshkian discuss Islamabad Peace Deal
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a telephone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, marking their first interaction since the signing of the Islamabad Peace Deal. The discussion, which lasted over 30 minutes, focused on the agreement’s impact on regional peace and Pakistan-Iran relations.
Sharif congratulated Pezeshkian, Iran’s leadership and its people on the “historic” deal, saying it would help restore stability in the region and support Iran’s rebuilding efforts. He also assured Pakistan’s continued support for Iran and conveyed greetings to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Sayyid Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei.
President Pezeshkian thanked Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for their role in facilitating the mediation process, saying Iran would remember Pakistan’s efforts during difficult times. Both leaders agreed to visit each other’s capitals soon to further strengthen bilateral cooperation and regional coordination.
https://platform.x.com/widgets.jsIslamabad :18 June 2026.
— Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) June 18, 2026
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif received a telephone call from His Excellency Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, this afternoon, that lasted over thirty minutes.
This was the first contact between the two leaders… pic.twitter.com/ukkFWYy975
Oil flows through Hormuz will take time to recover, banks say
A recovery in oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz and oil production following the U.S.-Iran interim peace deal will take time, potentially several months, analysts at two banks said.
Shipments through the strait, through which about a fifth of global oil supply passes, were disrupted during the Iran conflict, sending oil prices sharply higher. Brent crude rose to as much as $126 a barrel in April, a four-year high.
Goldman Sachs said it expects Middle East Gulf exports to normalise to pre-war levels by the end of July, and crude production to recover by October.
While ship availability is not a binding constraint on exports, cautiousness by shipowners could limit them, it said.
"We see shippers' risk aversion as a potential constraint on the flows, along with Iran's geopolitical goals over the upcoming 60-day nuclear deal negotiations," the bank said in a June 17 report.
BNP Paribas said that even in a best-case scenario it would take several months for oil flows to normalise, and that this would require producers to bring back about 12 million barrels per day of shut-in production.
Bank of America said clearing mines would likely take months, not days, given logistical challenges, adding that oil markets could remain in deficit until the fourth quarter of 2026. Reuters
Trump declares 'world will be safe', hails oil flow, markets surge and Iran nuclear deal
US President Donald Trump has claimed major victories in global security and the economy, saying oil supplies are flowing, Iran will never obtain a nuclear weapon, and the world is safer as a result. In a statement, Trump also pointed to rising stock markets, record jobs and falling prices, saying the United States is “strong, safe, and respected like never before.”
Qatar, Saudi Arabia discuss US-Iran MoU as Gulf states push for regional stability
Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani held a phone conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, with the recently signed US-Iran agreement being a key focus of discussions.
According to Qatar’s Foreign Ministry, the two officials reviewed bilateral relations and regional developments following the signing of the memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran. Qatar and Saudi Arabia have been among the Gulf nations advocating for diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions, as regional conflicts have disrupted energy flows and affected vital oil and gas exports.
https://platform.x.com/widgets.jsPrime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs @MBA_AlThani_ Receives Phone Call from Saudi Foreign Minister
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Qatar (@MofaQatar_EN) June 18, 2026
Doha | June 18, 2026
HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani received a phone call Thursday from HH… pic.twitter.com/NBeY05Hg9p
Israel targets Kfar Tebnit in Lebanon, says report
The outskirts of the town of Kfar Tebnit, a municipality located near Nabatieh in southern Lebanon, has been shelled by the Israeli military.
Lebanon’s National News Agency reported the attack took place in the direction of the Ali al-Taher Hill, it said. — Al Jazeera
Qatar welcomes signing of peace deal by US and Iran
Qatar has welcomed the electronic signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the United States and Iran aimed at addressing outstanding issues, including the cessation of military operations and ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Doha said the agreement reflects both sides’ commitment to resolving differences through dialogue and peaceful negotiations.
Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs praised the efforts of Pakistan and other regional and international partners in helping reduce tensions and facilitate the agreement. The ministry said the MoU could serve as a foundation for the next phase of talks and reaffirmed Qatar’s support for diplomatic efforts aimed at strengthening regional stability, security, and long-term cooperation.
https://platform.x.com/widgets.jsStatement | Qatar Welcomes Signing by US and Iran of MoU on Addressing Outstanding Issues
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Qatar (@MofaQatar_EN) June 18, 2026
Doha | June 18, 2026
The State of Qatar welcomes the electronic signing by the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on… pic.twitter.com/XmzK65vgr1
Putin says stabilization in Middle East will benefit energy markets
Stabilization in the Middle East will be beneficial for energy markets, Russian President Vladimir Putin told a summit with leaders from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in the Russian city of Kazan.
Putin was reacting to the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran aimed at ending their war.
Russia and ASEAN welcome the ceasefire agreement and believe it will be the basis for future agreements, Putin added. Reuters
Death toll from Israeli fire in Gaza since ceasefire passes 1,000, says health ministry
The number of Palestinians killed by Israeli fire in Gaza has reached more than 1,000 since a U.S.-brokered ceasefire last October, the enclave's health ministry said on Thursday, as at least three people were reported killed in the latest strike.
Medics said an Israeli strike hit a vehicle on the main Omar Al-Mokhtar road in Gaza City, killing three, as violence continues despite a new truce push by mediators. The Israeli military did not immediately comment on the incident.
Including the latest incident, the number of Palestinians killed since an October 2025 truce brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump was 1,008, the health ministry said.
Israel says four of its soldiers have been killed by militants in that period. Reuters
Israel issues new Lebanon occupation map, in talks with US over deployment
Israel's military published a map on Thursday showing an expanded zone of control for its troops in southern Lebanon, as Israeli officials told Reuters Israel was holding talks with the U.S. over continuing its deployment.
An interim pact signed on Wednesday to end the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran calls for an end to fighting on all fronts, including in Lebanon, and for parties to ensure "the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Lebanon."
Israel has rejected calls to withdraw troops from southern Lebanon, which it invaded in March in response to rocket fire by the Iran-backed Hezbollah militia. Israeli attacks and the destruction of villages have killed thousands and set off a displacement crisis. Reuters
https://platform.x.com/widgets.jsThe IDF is deployed in the Security Zone, ~10 km inside Lebanese territory, due to operational requirements.
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) June 18, 2026
IDF soldiers will continue to remove threats and strengthen the defense of Israel’s northern residents. pic.twitter.com/jQQPCSAeIe
3 killed in Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon, says report
Three people were killed in Israeli airstrikes on southern Lebanon on Thursday, according to the country’s state news agency. Reuters
EU’s Kaja Kallas responds after Israel’s Gideon Saar cuts contact
European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has responded to Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar’s decision to suspend contact with her, insisting that the EU remains committed to maintaining a “constructive relationship with Israel”.
Saar announced that he was cutting off communication with Kallas following remarks in which she was reportedly accused of comparing Israel’s treatment of Palestinians with conditions during apartheid-era South Africa. The Israeli foreign minister said he had “no choice” but to halt contact unless Kallas withdrew or clarified the alleged comparison.
https://platform.x.com/widgets.jsDear Gideon, as you know, the EU and Israel have a lot that binds us. I value our dialogue and engagement, and I’m open to continue in that spirit, respectfully and constructively. Dialogue is the foundation of diplomacy, especially when differences arise. The EU is always…
— Kaja Kallas (@kajakallas) June 18, 2026
Iran FM Araghchi calls for dialogue with Gulf nations to resolve misunderstandings
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stressed the importance of dialogue with Gulf countries to address existing misunderstandings during a phone conversation with his Kuwaiti counterpart. Reuters
Oil falls to lowest since start of Iran war after ceasefire deal signed
Oil prices fell more than 1% on Thursday to their lowest since the first trading day of the Iran war, as a U.S.-Iran interim deal to end the conflict, reopen the Strait of Hormuz and ease sanctions on Tehran boosted the global supply outlook.
Brent crude futures were down $1.02, or 1.28%, at $78.53 a barrel at 1036 GMT, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate fell $1.48, or 1.93%, to $75.31 a barrel.
Brent sank to its lowest since March 2, which was the first day of trading after the initial U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran, while WTI was at its lowest since March 4.
"The selloff extended as energy markets continued to aggressively price in a faster-than-expected return of Iranian barrels following the recent U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding," IG market analyst Tony Sycamore said in a note. Reuters
From the Iran US Peace Deal - Final deal to be endorsed by UNSC resolution
"The final Deal will be endorsed by a binding UNSC resolution."
From the Iran US Peace Deal - Executive mechanism to monitor implementation of MoU
"The Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America agree that an executive mechanism will be established to monitor the successful implementation of this MoU and the future compliance of the final Deal."
From the Iran US Peace Deal - US to make available Iran's frozen funds
"The United States of America undertakes to make fully available for use, the frozen or restricted funds and assets of the Islamic Republic of Iran upon the implementation of this MoU. The United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran will mutually agree on the procedures related to the release of these funds during the negotiations. Such funds, whether released inside or outside Iran, shall be made fully accessible for payment to any ultimate beneficiary designated by the Central Bank of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The United States of America undertakes to issue all necessary licenses and authorizations accordingly."
From the Iran US Peace Deal - US to issue waivers for export of crude oil
"The United States of America undertakes that immediately upon the signing of this MoU, and until the termination of sanctions, the U.S. Department of the Treasury will issue waivers for the export of crude oil, petroleum products and derivatives, and all associated services including banking transactions, insurances, transportation, etc."
From the Iran US Peace Deal - Iran, US to maintain status quo till signing of final deal
"Pending the final Deal, the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America agreed to maintain the status quo; the Islamic Republic of Iran will maintain the current status quo of its nuclear program, and the United States of America will not impose any new sanctions, and will not deploy additional forces in the region."
From the Iran US Peace Deal - Iran won't procure or develop nuclear weapons
"The Islamic Republic of Iran confirms that it shall not procure or develop nuclear weapons. The Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America have agreed to resolve the disposition of stockpiled enriched material pursuant to a mechanism that will be mutually agreed upon, in accordance with the schedule mentioned in paragraph 7, with the minimum methodology to be down-blending on-site, under the supervision of the IAEA. The two Parties also agree to discuss the issue of enrichment, and other mutually agreed matters related to the Islamic Republic of Iran's nuclear needs, based on a satisfactory framework being agreed upon in the final Deal. The final Deal will contain the provisions of this paragraph. The Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America acknowledge the critical importance of the nuclear issues above mentioned and express their intentions to immediately address these issues in the negotiations in order to achieve mutual agreement on them."
From the Iran US Peace Deal - US to terminate sanctions against Iran
"The United States of America undertakes to terminate all types of sanctions against the Islamic Republic of Iran, including the United Nations Security Council resolutions, IAEA Board of Governors resolutions and all unilateral U.S. sanctions, primary and secondary, in an agreed upon time frame part of the final Deal. The Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America acknowledge the critical importance of the sanctions termination issues above mentioned and express their intentions to immediately address these issues in the negotiations in order to achieve mutual agreement on them."
From the Iran US Peace Deal - US, regional partners to develop $300 billion plan for reconstruction, development in Iran
"The United States of America undertakes, with regional partners, to develop a definitive mutually agreed plan with at least USD 300 Billion, for the reconstruction and economic development of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The mechanism for the implementation of this plan will be finalized as part of final Deal within 60 days. All required licenses, waivers and permissions needed for the relevant financial transactions will be granted by the United States of America."
From the Iran US Peace Deal - No toll on Hormuz for 60 days
"Upon the signing of this MoU, the Islamic Republic of Iran will make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels, with no charge for 60 days only, from the Persian Gulf to the Sea of Oman, and vice versa. The traffic of commercial vessels will immediately start, and considering the need for removing the technical and military obstacles, and de-mining by the Islamic Republic of Iran, will be instated within 30 days. The Islamic Republic of Iran will conduct dialogue with the Sultanate of Oman, to define the future administration and maritime services in the Strait of Hormuz, in discussions with other Persian Gulf Littoral States, in line with applicable international law and the sovereign rights of coastal states of the Strait of Hormuz."
From the Iran US Peace Deal - US to remove naval blockade
"Immediately upon the signing of this MoU, the United States of America will begin the removal of its naval blockade and any disturbances or impediments against the Islamic Republic of Iran, and will fully end the naval blockade within 30 days. During this period, the traffic of vessels will be in proportion to the numbers of pre-war traffic being restored by the Islamic Republic of Iran. The United States of America further undertakes to remove its forces from the proximity of the Islamic Republic of Iran within 30 days after the final Deal."
From the Iran US Peace Deal - Iran, US to reach final deal in 60 days
"The Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America commit to negotiating and achieving the final Deal, in maximum 60 days extendable with mutual consent."
From the Iran US Peace Deal - Iran, US to respect each other's sovereignty
"The Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America undertake to respect each other's sovereignty and territorial integrity and to refrain from interfering in each other's internal affairs."
From the Iran US Peace Deal - Immediate & Permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including Lebanon
"The Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America, and their allies in the current war, by signing this MoU, declare the immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon, and undertake from now on not to initiate any war or any military operation against each other, and to refrain from the threat or use of force against each other, and ensuring the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Lebanon. The final Deal will confirm the permanent termination of the war on all fronts, including in Lebanon, and other provisions of this paragraph."
Iran President Masoud Pesezhkian posts MoU on social media
Iran President Masoud Pesezhkian post MoU on X, says, " This is a historical document and a message from a powerful Iran: Peace will be realized in the shadow of mutual respect. The Islamic Republic of Iran has always been committed and steadfast to global peace while preserving its dignity and independence, as well as to progress and regional cooperation."
https://platform.x.com/widgets.jsاین یک سند تاریخی و پیامی از ایران مقتدر است: صلح در سایه احترام متقابل تحقق خواهد یافت.
— Masoud Pezeshkian (@drpezeshkian) June 18, 2026
جمهوری اسلامی ایران به صلح جهانی با حفظ عزت و استقلال، پیشرفت و همکاری منطقهای همواره متعهد و پایبند است. pic.twitter.com/FgbeHSioKX
First tankers cross strait after Iran deal; Israeli strikes stir doubt in Lebanon
Three Saudi-flagged supertankers carrying 6 million barrels of crude sailed through the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday, hours after U.S. President Donald Trump signed a deal with Iran to end the war that has disrupted global energy supplies.
But in Lebanon, where more than a million people are displaced by the fighting, Israeli forces launched fresh airstrikes on Thursday morning, raising doubt about how far Trump will go to force his wartime allies to halt an offensive he has now pledged to end.
Trump put his signature on Wednesday on the "memorandum of understanding" to end the war, as did Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian, bringing it into effect two days earlier than previously expected. It calls for the immediate opening of the Strait of Hormuz and lifting of a U.S. blockade of Iran's ports.
Though shippers say it will still take time for transit across the strait to reach pre-war levels, with a need yet to ensure safe access and clear mines, there were immediate signs of an impact. Reuters
US warns it could resume military action if Iran fails to follow deal commitments
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said Washington is prepared to restart military operations and restore a blockade against Iran if Tehran does not fulfil its obligations under the US-Iran agreement.
Speaking after a meeting with NATO defence ministers in Brussels, Hegseth said the US would respond if Iran fails to follow through on its commitments and could reimpose what he called an “ironclad blockade.”
Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth slams NATO allies for no access to Europe bases during Iran war
Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth has slammed his NATO allies at a roundtable meeting over defence spending and what he says was a failure to provide US forces access to bases in Europe to launch attacks on Iran. Hesgeth also announced a review of the US military presence in Europe. — Al Jazeera
EU remains committed to constructive relationship with Israel, Kallas says
Kaja Kallas, the European Union's top diplomat, said on Thursday that the EU remains committed to a constructive relationship with Israel, after Israeli foreign minister Gideon Saar said he was severing all contact with her.
In a post on X addressed to Saar, Kallas said: "I value our dialogue and engagement, and I'm open to continue in that spirit, respectfully and constructively."
Kallas said the EU remained committed to the two-state solution and reiterated that the EU has condemned Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Reuters
Trump calls critics of peace deal 'jealous, bad people, or stupid'
Hours after signing the peace deal, US President Donald Trump took to Truth Social and hit out at critics who say he has “not been tough enough on Iran”, calling them “jealous, bad people, or stupid”.
Israel continues Lebanon attacks despite Iran US peace deal, says report
Israel continues Lebanon attacks after US and Iran sign deal. US officials had said US-Iran deal would include an end to the war in Lebanon. - Al Jazeera
Pakistan PM signs peace deal | WATCH
Pakistan Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif signed the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (Islamabad MoU) as a mediator. The Islamabad MOU has been signed by President of USA Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. The Pakistan PMO has shared a clip. Watch it here:
https://platform.x.com/widgets.jsIslamabad :18 June 2026.
— Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) June 18, 2026
Prime Minister of Pakistan Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif signed the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (Islamabad MoU)، as mediator.
The Islamabad MOU has been signed by President of USA Donald J. Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. pic.twitter.com/M0LKK9XoK8
PM praises Trump, Iran leaders for signing peace memorandum; says Hormuz will reopen instantly
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday hailed US President Donald Trump and Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei for restoring peace in West Asia, as he announced that both sides have sealed the "historic" Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding.
Sharif also praised top US and Iranian leaders for their "steadfast commitment to diplomacy" and "embracing the cause of peace", as he announced that the signing of the document will instantly reopen the Strait of Hormuz and the US will immediately lift its naval blockade.
Trump signed the memorandum of understanding at the Palace of Versailles in France, where he had dinner with French President Emmanuel Macron after the G7 summit, on Wednesday. PTI
Pakistan, Canada discuss US-Iran MoU; Ottawa praises Islamabad’s mediation role
Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a phone conversation with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand to discuss the recently signed US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). According to Pakistan’s foreign ministry, Anand praised Islamabad’s role in facilitating diplomatic engagement and mediation efforts between Washington and Tehran, which helped pave the way for the agreement. The two ministers also discussed the upcoming talks between the US and Iran scheduled in Burgenstock, Switzerland, on Friday, and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
https://platform.x.com/widgets.jsDeputy Prime Minister / Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 spoke last night with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand @AnitaAnandMP.
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) June 18, 2026
FM Anita Anand commended Pakistan’s constructive role in supporting diplomatic engagement and mediation efforts between the… pic.twitter.com/TlqOq6spk4
'Strait of Hormuz will not return to pre-war conditions', Iran says transit fees to begin after 60 days
Iran's chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf reiterated that Tehran plans to charge vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz after a 60-day fee-free period outlined in the memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the US.
Speaking in an interview broadcast on state television, Ghalibaf said the strategic waterway would not revert to its pre-conflict status. “The Strait of Hormuz will not return to pre-war conditions,” he said, adding that Iran considers the passage part of its sovereign domain and intends to levy charges for services provided to ships using the route. (Khaleej Times)
All we know so far
What the Iran-US Memorandum of Understanding says
The United States and Iran have signed an interim 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at ending hostilities, reopening the Strait of Hormuz and laying the groundwork for a comprehensive agreement within 60 days.
Provisions of the agreement include:
US, Iran sign peace deal, end hostilities and reopen Strait of Hormuz
The United States and Iran have signed an interim agreement that ends hostilities, reopens the Strait of Hormuz and restarts negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear programme. The deal allows Iran to resume oil exports under sanctions waivers while committing to dilute its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. A 60-day window has been set for both sides to negotiate a broader and permanent agreement, with the reopening of the shipping route expected to ease pressure on global energy markets. (AP)
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