First Thing: Trump backs G7 statement on Iran deal as domestic criticism grows

G7 leaders have issued a joint statement supporting a deal struck by President Trump with Iran, but calling for follow-on negotiations to address Iran's ballistic missile program, an issue not covered in the current memorandum of understanding. The statement, made at the G7 summit in France, suggests that broader international involvement, including the IAEA, would benefit future talks. While the deal reportedly lifts US sanctions on Iran's oil and establishes a reconstruction fund, Iran is expected to reject proposals for wider talks and a joint taskforce for the Strait of Hormuz. The G7 also reaffirmed support for Ukraine, calling for increased pressure on Russia through sanctions and arms deliveries.

Iranian oil tankers have reportedly resumed exports for the first time in two months, exiting a US blockade zone in the Strait of Hormuz. This development comes as the United States and Iran prepare to sign a memorandum of understanding and commence further talks aimed at ending their war. According to the tracking website TankerTrackers, at least three National Iranian Tanker Company (NITC) tankers, carrying millions of barrels of crude oil, crossed the blockade line on Tuesday and Wednesday. These talks, scheduled to begin Friday at Switzerland’s Burgenstock mountain resort, are intended to lead to an agreement on Iran’s nuclear program and the lifting of international sanctions. The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz has reportedly caused world oil prices to fall.

Iran has threatened a "harsh response" to Israel following strikes in southern Lebanon that killed four people, despite a US-Iran agreement to end the Middle East war. This deal, facilitated by Pakistan and Qatar, is set to be signed in Switzerland on Friday. The agreement includes lifting economic sanctions on Iran and addressing its nuclear program, with negotiations to follow for 60 days. As part of the deal, the US will allow Iran to resume oil sales, provided it adheres to terms like ensuring free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and not acquiring nuclear weapons. A US naval blockade on Iranian ports has reportedly been lifted ahead of the signing.

G7 leaders, meeting in France, have pledged to bolster Ukraine's air defenses by increasing the delivery of air defense systems and interceptors. They also committed to intensifying pressure on Russia's war economy through tightened sanctions, particularly on the oil and gas sectors. The leaders expressed unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Additionally, the G7 is considering allowing Ukraine to benefit from licenses that could boost its domestic military production. These decisions were made following discussions where Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy advocated for increased military aid and production capabilities.

Iran has warned of a "harsh response" following Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon that killed four people, accusing Israel of violating a truce linked to a US-Iran agreement. Iranian officials state that a regional ceasefire, particularly in Lebanon, is essential for any deal with Washington. This situation has also strained ties between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with Trump urging Netanyahu to be more responsible. Analysts suggest that continued Israeli actions in Lebanon could jeopardize the US-Iran agreement unless the US applies significant pressure on Israel. Meanwhile, a third Iranian oil tanker has reportedly exited a US naval blockade line in the Gulf of Oman, aligning with Iran's demand for an end to the blockade as part of the deal. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney described the preliminary agreement as a "game changer" that exceeded expectations.

President Trump has backed a G7 statement supporting his proposed peace deal with Iran, despite domestic criticism from some Republicans who want more details. European leaders are seeking to join future talks, which Iran's top diplomat indicated would require Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon. Meanwhile, people in Iran express exhaustion and anger over the lack of change. The deal also highlights diverging US-Israeli strategic interests, leaving Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in a difficult political position. In other news, detainees have been relocated from Florida's "Alligator Alcatraz" immigration jail, and fifteen individuals in Minnesota face charges related to protests against ICE enforcement.

The White House has issued talking points to supporters and Republican lawmakers claiming significant victories in its dealings with Iran, including Iran agreeing to forgo nuclear weapons and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. However, the details of the initial agreement remain secret, even from many allies, leading to confusion and skepticism. These claims often contradict the realities on the ground, particularly regarding the conflict in Lebanon, where Hezbollah is not a party to the talks and has rejected any agreements. President Trump stated he would release the agreement at a formal setting, possibly with a press conference. The talking points also misrepresent aspects of the Obama-era nuclear deal.

At the G7 summit, US President Donald Trump declared the Strait of Hormuz would be "completely open" from Friday, claiming a deal was signed that would prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. He expressed optimism for positive developments in the Middle East and noted a rise in oil prices and the stock market. Analysts, however, pointed out that key promises regarding Iran's nuclear program and regime change in Tehran had not been fulfilled by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who distanced himself from the negotiations. The G7 summit also aimed to bolster support for Ukraine through further sanctions on Russia and energy aid. Separately, eight individuals are presumed dead after a B-52 bomber crashed in California, with a flight-control malfunction suspected as the cause. California Governor Gavin Newsom also claimed Trump directed the Department of Justice to investigate him and his wife.

The United States and Iran are set to sign an initial agreement in Geneva on Friday, mediated by Pakistan, to end the US-Israel war on Iran and begin 60-day negotiations. While details are undisclosed, US President Donald Trump emphasized Iran's nuclear program as a key concern. Relations between the two countries deteriorated significantly under Trump, beginning with the US withdrawal from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in May 2018. Following the withdrawal, the US imposed new sanctions on Iran in August and November 2018, targeting various sectors including oil and banking. In April 2019, Trump designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a foreign terrorist organization, leading to retaliatory measures from Tehran.

Israeli drone strikes killed at least four people in southern Lebanon's Nabatieh governorate on Tuesday. The attacks targeted three vehicles in the villages of Mayfadoun and Shoukin. These strikes occurred despite ongoing ceasefire negotiations between Iran and the United States, which reportedly include an end to Israeli attacks on Lebanon. Iranian officials have stated that Israel's continued occupation of southern Lebanon would violate any ceasefire agreement. Following the announcement of the US-Iran deal, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated Israel would continue its occupation of southern Lebanon.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Tuesday that a permanent ceasefire in Lebanon is a crucial component of the peace deal announced with the United States the previous day. Araghchi emphasized that Iran and Hezbollah view themselves as one party to the memorandum, alongside the United States and Israel. He described the immediate and permanent end to the war on all fronts, including Lebanon, as the most important issue within the agreement. The conflict began on February 28 with US-Israeli strikes on Iran and subsequently involved Lebanon when Iran-backed Hezbollah attacked Israel.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the end of the war with the United States includes Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon. Speaking to foreign diplomats, Araghchi emphasized that Israel's continued occupation of Lebanese territories occupied during the war would be considered a violation of the memorandum of understanding. This assertion clashes with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement that Israel has its own priorities and will remain in a buffer zone in Lebanon as long as necessary. The details of the unpublished interim agreement, brokered mainly by Pakistan, remain unclear, but it reportedly includes the opening of the Strait of Hormuz and negotiations on Iran's nuclear program.

At a G7 summit in France, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a strong warning to Iran, stating that "all hell will rain down" if the country attempts to acquire a nuclear weapon. Trump described a tentative ceasefire deal with Iran as a "wall to a nuclear weapon," emphasizing his commitment to preventing Iran from obtaining such a capability. He also expressed unusually critical remarks regarding Israel's military offensive in Lebanon, suggesting that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "has to be more responsible." Trump's comments came as a memorandum of understanding between the U.S. and Iran is set to be formally signed, with further negotiations planned. He indicated that he believes Iran's current leadership is rational.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israeli forces will maintain a "security zone" in occupied Lebanon. The article does not specify when this statement was made or provide further details on the extent or duration of this security zone. The prime minister's declaration indicates Israel's intention to continue its military presence in the region. The article also mentions Syria and Gaza in relation to Israel's security posture, though specific actions or intentions regarding these areas are not elaborated upon in the provided content.

President Trump announced that a US-Iran peace deal has been signed, with the Strait of Hormuz set to be fully open from Friday. This agreement, which reportedly involves lifting a US naval blockade on Iran in exchange for Iran foregoing nuclear weapons, is intended to stabilize the global economy. However, loose ends remain, including Iran's claims of the right to charge fees in the waterway and Israeli breaches of a ceasefire in Lebanon. G7 leaders are working to solidify the fragile agreement, with technical discussions on Iran's nuclear program and sanctions relief to follow. Israel has stated its own interests and will not leave occupied territory in Lebanon, while also reserving the right to strike Iran if it pursues nuclear weapons.

The United States and Iran are set to sign an interim peace deal on Friday in Geneva, Switzerland, aimed at ending a nearly four-month conflict and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump announced the deal's completion, authorizing the toll-free opening of the Strait and the removal of the US naval blockade of Iranian ports. The conflict, which began on February 28 in response to US and Israeli attacks, has resulted in thousands of deaths and economic disruption. While the deal calls for an immediate and permanent termination of military operations, key tensions like Iran's nuclear program and sanctions relief are deferred to future technical talks. International reactions have been cautiously welcoming, though uncertainties remain regarding the deal's implementation and potential risks.

US President Donald Trump announced that a deal with Iran, aimed at ending over 100 days of war, will be signed this Friday. Iran has confirmed plans for an end to hostilities, to be declared early Monday GMT. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who mediated indirect talks, broke the news, stating a "permanent termination of military operations on all fronts" had been agreed. The deal reportedly includes the toll-free opening of the Strait of Hormuz and the immediate removal of the US naval blockade. Iran's deputy foreign minister confirmed the expected end to military operations and stated negotiations on a final agreement would occur over 60 days, contingent on US fulfillment of commitments like releasing frozen assets. Details reported by Iranian news agency Mehr include a cessation of hostilities, lifting the naval blockade within 30 days, US troop withdrawal from around Iran, and suspension of sanctions on oil sales.

The United States and Iran have reached a tentative agreement to end over 100 days of conflict, with hostilities to cease immediately on all fronts, including Lebanon. A signing ceremony is scheduled for Friday in Switzerland. The deal also includes the immediate end of the naval blockade against Iran. Negotiations for a final agreement will continue for 60 days. While the agreement is expected to reduce violence and reopen shipping lanes, significant uncertainty remains regarding Israel's adherence to the terms, particularly concerning its presence in Lebanon. Israeli officials have indicated a continued military presence in security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza.

The US and Iran have announced a framework peace deal to tentatively end their 15-week conflict, with an agreement expected to be signed this week. The deal includes a 60-day period for intensive technical talks on contentious issues like Iran's nuclear program, and Iran's deputy foreign minister stated they will seek sanctions relief. Donald Trump announced the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the removal of the US naval blockade. Hardliners in Iran expressed anger over the deal's perceived lack of guarantees on sanctions and compensation. Israel stated its forces will remain in security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza indefinitely.

President Trump announced that a deal to end hostilities with Iran has been signed, with details to be released soon. He stated that a U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports has been lifted and the Strait of Hormuz will be open from Friday, with ships already moving through carrying oil. Iran's deputy foreign minister confirmed the end of military operations, portraying the agreement as a victory for Iran, reached after extensive talks mediated by Qatar. While Lebanon's president welcomed the announcement as a step towards ending violence, Iran's foreign ministry expressed deep mistrust of the U.S. and described the agreement as merely a step towards de-escalation. Past disagreements have centered on Iran's nuclear program and sanctions relief.

President Trump announced a deal concerning Iran, which he presented as a positive development, particularly in relation to energy prices. The article suggests this deal could help alleviate economic strain on Americans caused by higher energy costs and their ripple effects. However, the success of the deal remains uncertain, with potential risks highlighted, such as Iran closing the Strait of Hormuz if Israel launches new military operations in Lebanon, which could jeopardize the global economy. The article notes that falling petrol prices could be a tangible sign of economic improvement for Americans and potentially ease political pressure on Republicans ahead of the midterm elections, as public approval of Trump's handling of the economy is currently low.

Asian nations are experiencing a mix of relief and wariness regarding a US-Iran peace deal, set to be signed in Switzerland on Friday, mediated by Pakistan. The agreement aims to end over three months of conflict in the Gulf, lift the US blockade on Iran, and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil chokepoint. This waterway is vital for energy-importing Asian economies, as it handled approximately 20 million barrels of oil daily in 2024, representing 20% of global consumption. While the deal promises immediate relief, regional leaders are awaiting confirmation of the Strait's reopening and a subsequent easing of oil prices. Analysts suggest that the agreement's long-term success will depend on its ability to navigate ongoing nuclear talks and persistent geopolitical distrust.

Asian stock markets surged on Monday following the announcement of a tentative deal to end the Iran war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Benchmarks in Tokyo and Seoul saw gains exceeding 5%, while oil prices dropped over $4 per barrel. U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the initial agreement and authorized the end of the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports. Iran also confirmed the deal, with implementation expected after a signing ceremony in Switzerland on Friday. Broader negotiations concerning Iran's nuclear program are slated to continue for the next 60 days. This development offers significant relief to global markets that have been volatile since the conflict began in late February, though experts caution that oil prices may take months to stabilize.

US President Donald Trump stated on Saturday that the US was poised to sign a new agreement with Iran that day, aiming to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons and reopen the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif indicated Islamabad was preparing for an electronic signing within 24 hours, followed by technical talks. However, an Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson expressed caution, suggesting the signing would not occur the next day but might happen in the coming days. Meanwhile, pro-government rallies continued in Iran, with some protesters expressing opposition to an agreement with the US. Trump also discussed efforts to resolve the Iran conflict with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

The United States and Iran are reportedly close to signing the first stage of a peace deal to end a conflict now in its 107th day. US President Donald Trump stated the agreement could be signed as early as Sunday, with a post on his Truth Social platform indicating the Strait of Hormuz would immediately reopen to all traffic upon signing. However, Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has downplayed this optimism, stating the signing will not occur on Sunday and an exact date is undetermined. Iran's chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, expressed continued resolve for "final victory," while President Masoud Pezeshkian highlighted Iran's unity in forcing a ceasefire during a recent 12-day war. Iran's Foreign Minister indicated the proposed agreement includes 14 points, with the first being the lifting of US blockades on Iranian ports and an end to hostilities across all fronts.

The US claims a deal to end the war with Iran could be signed as early as Sunday, with President Trump stating it would extend the current ceasefire for 60 days and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. However, Iran disputes this timeline, suggesting the signing will occur in the "coming days" and that the initial agreement, a memorandum of understanding mediated by Pakistan, will focus on ending the war and not discuss nuclear issues. While Trump has shared details of the agreement, including Iran's commitment to never acquire nuclear weapons, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson indicated caution due to the other party's instability. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expects the agreement to be finalized within 24 hours, followed by electronic signing and technical talks. There is ambiguity regarding the exact timing and method of signing, with reports of preparations for a physical ceremony now replaced by talk of an electronic signing.

The United States and Iran are reportedly close to a deal to end the ongoing war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with Pakistan's Prime Minister stating it could be finalized within 24 hours. This potential breakthrough follows recent exchanges of fire between Iran, the U.S., and Israel. Key aspects of the emerging agreement include finalizing terms for Iran's nuclear program within 60 days, which involves removing enriched uranium, and reopening the vital shipping lane. The deal is also expected to include the phased lifting of sanctions on Iran and the release of frozen assets. However, the status of Lebanon and a potential ceasefire there remains unclear, with Iran insisting on its inclusion in any agreement.

US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that an initial deal to end a Middle Eastern war would be signed on Sunday, with the Strait of Hormuz to be immediately reopened. However, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman stated that the signing would not occur on Sunday, though a memorandum of understanding could be signed in the coming days. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed that both sides had agreed on a peace deal framework and that Islamabad was preparing for an electronic signing on Sunday, followed by technical talks. Iran's spokesman cautioned against definitive statements on the signing date due to the other side's hesitation.

As Iran and the US approach a potential deal to end a recent conflict, Tehran is commemorating the anniversary of a 12-day war with Israel in June 2025. This past year has been bloody for Iran, with government figures reporting over 3,468 deaths in the current conflict with the US and Israel, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iranian authorities assert that assassinations and strikes have not deterred their resolve, portraying their losses as a necessary struggle against foreign domination. Despite significant casualties, Iran claims a superior position, having survived two wars and disrupted global energy markets by controlling the Strait of Hormuz. Hardliners are reportedly criticizing the terms of the potential US-Iran agreement, which may address frozen funds, the Strait of Hormuz, and Iran's nuclear program.

President Trump announced on Saturday that the US is poised to sign a new agreement with Iran on Sunday, which he claims will prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons and reopen the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping. Trump stated that Iran "no longer want a Nuclear Weapon, nor will they have one." He also mentioned an "ultimate alternative" if the deal is not signed. While Pakistan's Prime Minister indicated an electronic signing within 24 hours, an Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson advised caution, stating the signing would not occur on Sunday. The proposed deal, according to various sources, could involve reopening the strait, lifting a US naval blockade, and subsequent negotiations on Iran's nuclear program, though details and timelines differ significantly between US and Iranian accounts.

On day 106 of the war, Iran and the United States indicated a deal to end the conflict is close, with a final text reportedly agreed upon but key steps pending. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated a memorandum of understanding with Washington was "never been closer," while Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed a "final, agreed-upon text" exists. The initial phase of the proposed deal includes a ceasefire on all fronts, including Lebanon, lifting the Strait of Hormuz blockade, and unfreezing Iranian assets. While Iranian officials claim President Trump agreed to release $24 billion in frozen assets, Trump has previously dismissed reports about the deal as "fake news." Securing and maintaining a ceasefire in Lebanon is identified as a critical test for the agreement's success.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that a memorandum of understanding with the United States to end the war is closer than ever, urging an end to media speculation until its finalization. US President Donald Trump reposted Araghchi's statement on Truth Social, after previously dismissing reports about the deal's details as "fake news." The article also mentions that four activists from Palestine Action were jailed by a British court on "terror" charges for a protest raid on an Israeli arms firm in the UK. The publication date for this information is June 13, 2026.

Prospects for a US-Iran peace deal remain uncertain due to conflicting claims from both sides. President Trump initially suggested a preliminary agreement was imminent but later expressed frustration, calling Iran "dishonorable." Iranian state media denied a deal was fully agreed upon, while Pakistan's Prime Minister claimed a final text had been reached. A senior US official indicated an 80-85% chance of an agreement within days, mentioning economic rewards for Iran and relief of sanctions. However, significant disagreements persist, particularly regarding the Strait of Hormuz and the terms of Iran's nuclear program and frozen assets.

Iran and Pakistan state a deal to end fighting is "never been closer," echoing a similar sentiment from US President Donald Trump. Iran's conditions for final negotiations include the release of half its frozen assets, suspension of oil sanctions, and lifting of a naval blockade, alongside ending the Israeli conflict with Hezbollah. From the US perspective, the deal requires Iran to dismantle its nuclear program and destroy nuclear material. A senior US official stated no funds would be released until Iran meets US demands, including opening the Strait of Hormuz and ceasing funding for terrorist groups. US Vice-President JD Vance clarified that economic benefits would only flow to Iran and the region if Iran meets its obligations. The Pakistani prime minister acknowledged misinformation campaigns aiming to sabotage the peace deal.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that a "final, agreed upon text of the peace deal" between the US and Iran has been reached, stating that peace is closer than ever. Both US and Iranian officials cautioned against media speculation on the agreement's terms, with Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicating a deal is "never been closer." A senior US official confirmed they are "very close" to a deal involving significant sanctions relief and unfreezing of Iranian assets in exchange for Iran dismantling its nuclear program and handing over nuclear material, with sanctions relief contingent on Iranian compliance. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated relevant institutions are in the "final stages of summarising the text of the understanding." This diplomatic development follows recent US-Iran strikes and comes after weeks of alternating threats and indications of a potential ceasefire agreement.

President Trump has indicated that an agreement to end the conflict with Iran is nearing finalization. This statement follows his decision to cancel planned military strikes against Iran. The article does not specify when this agreement is expected to be finalized or provide details about its terms. The context suggests a potential de-escalation of tensions between the United States and Iran, with the President expressing optimism about an imminent resolution.

U.S. and Iranian officials indicate they are close to an agreement to end their war, with a senior U.S. official stating the tentative deal includes terms for removing and destroying Iran's nuclear material and dismantling its nuclear program. Regional officials suggest the emerging deal will facilitate the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, phased lifting of sanctions, and release of frozen Iranian assets. This breakthrough follows recent exchanges of fire between Iran, the U.S., and Israel. The war, which began on February 28, has significantly disrupted oil and natural gas shipments from the Persian Gulf. While a fragile ceasefire has been in place since April 7, President Trump has expressed optimism about a deal, though he also issued a warning to Iranian officials. Israel is not a party to the negotiations but maintains that Iran must not possess nuclear weapons.

President Donald Trump has denied reports of leaked Iran ceasefire terms, calling them "fake news" and "dishonorable." He stated on Truth Social that the published terms had no relation to what was agreed upon in writing. This statement comes amidst ongoing efforts to reach a more lasting end to the war launched by the US and Israel against Iran on February 28. Trump had previously indicated a deal was approved and could be signed soon. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi suggested an "Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding" for a ceasefire was close to finalization, urging against speculation on terms until they are officially announced. The Iranian state news agency IRNA had published what it described as seven main points of the deal, reportedly showing little Iranian compromise on key issues.

As a potential Iran-US ceasefire agreement nears, Gulf states are prompted to reassess their long-term security arrangements. The recent war on Iran, initiated by the US and Israel, has exposed vulnerabilities in the existing US-Gulf security model, with Gulf nations hosting US facilities becoming targets of Iranian attacks. Despite relying on US forces for security, their presence has made them targets, highlighting the need for new solutions as Iran remains a regional neighbor. The conflict has also impacted Gulf economies, particularly those reliant on the Strait of Hormuz, encouraging new thinking on economic and security strategies. This situation may lead Gulf states to consider engagement with Iran rather than continued confrontation.