Rubio tries to reassure Gulf allies on US-Iran deal details

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will meet with allies in the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain this week to address concerns about a recent 60-day ceasefire deal with Iran. While Qatar helped mediate the agreement, these Gulf nations fear that unfrozen Iranian assets, potentially totaling billions, could fund Iran's military. Rubio aims to reassure them of continued US security commitment. The article notes division within the Gulf over the deal, with some countries expressing apprehension about Iran's potential gains. Iran, meanwhile, disputes US claims about how unfrozen assets can be used and the extent of nuclear inspection agreements.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has arrived in Pakistan for a state visit, his first overseas trip since recent US and Israel strikes on Iran. He was received by Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. During his visit, Pezeshkian will hold talks with Sharif and is expected to meet Zardari to discuss bilateral relations and cooperation in areas such as trade, energy, and border security. This visit follows crucial US-Iran negotiations in Switzerland, mediated by Pakistan and Qatar, which resulted in an agreement for the US to release frozen Iranian funds and temporarily ease sanctions. The talks established a 60-day roadmap towards a final deal.

Washington is set to host new talks between Israel and Lebanon this week, following a renewed ceasefire announcement. Iran has made a ceasefire in Lebanon a crucial condition for its ongoing negotiations with the US. These talks are occurring amidst a backdrop of significant conflict, with over 4,000 casualties reported in Lebanon due to Israeli attacks since March. Mediators Qatar and Pakistan have reported progress between the US and Iran, leading to a roadmap that includes a "de-confliction cell" to oversee the cessation of military operations in Lebanon. While the US aims to protect Lebanon's sovereignty and Israel's security, Hezbollah has condemned the talks, demanding a full Israeli withdrawal. Israel, however, has repeatedly stated its intention to remain in occupied areas of Lebanon indefinitely.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is visiting Pakistan for talks aimed at mediating a permanent end to the Middle East war. This visit occurs as technical teams finalize details of a potential deal between Iran and the U.S., following high-level negotiations in Switzerland. Discrepancies have emerged regarding agreed-upon terms, particularly concerning International Atomic Energy Agency inspections of Iranian nuclear sites, which Iran disputes. Violence has also resurfaced in Lebanon between Israel and Hezbollah, threatening the fragile ceasefire and potentially impacting the broader diplomatic process. During initial talks, Iran and the U.S. agreed to establish a "de-confliction cell" for the Lebanon conflict and discussed mechanisms to keep the Strait of Hormuz open.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is visiting Islamabad, Pakistan, for the first time since the US and Israel attacked Iran on February 28. This trip follows high-level US-Iran talks in Switzerland that produced a 60-day roadmap towards a final deal, with Pakistan mediating. Pezeshkian's visit is seen as a way to leverage the fragile agreement for political capital and to express gratitude for Pakistan's mediation efforts. He will meet with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari to discuss the Switzerland talks and deepen bilateral cooperation in trade, energy, border security, and regional connectivity. This visit marks a significant diplomatic engagement for Pezeshkian, especially given recent tensions between Iran and Pakistan, which were resolved after a military escalation in January 2024.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will travel to the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Bahrain from June 23 to June 25. During his visit, he will meet with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members to discuss regional priorities. Key topics will include the memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Iran, ensuring safe transit through the Strait of Hormuz, and promoting regional peace and stability. The discussions occur amid ongoing talks between the US and Iran aimed at a negotiated settlement on complex issues. The Strait of Hormuz is a vital waterway for oil and gas transit from the Middle East.

High-ranking US and Iranian officials concluded the first day of talks in Switzerland, with Iran's foreign minister declaring "progress." Mediators Qatar and Pakistan announced that the US and Iran agreed to a 60-day roadmap towards a final deal, with technical talks continuing this week. A key agenda item is the fighting in Lebanon between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, which threatens the agreement. The talks, led by US Vice President JD Vance and Iran's parliamentary speaker Ghalibaf, aim to address Iran's nuclear program and other issues outlined in a recent memorandum of understanding. The US and Iran also agreed to establish a communication line for the Strait of Hormuz and a de-confliction cell for Lebanon.

U.S. and Iranian negotiators began a second day of talks in Switzerland aimed at solidifying an end to their conflict, following a turbulent first day. Mediators Qatar and Pakistan reported "encouraging progress," including an agreement to establish a "de-confliction cell" for the conflict in Lebanon. A U.S. diplomat indicated advancements on ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remains open and maintaining a ceasefire in southern Lebanon. However, the initial day of negotiations was disrupted by statements from U.S. President Donald Trump, which Iranian state media reported caused a pause in talks. Despite the rocky start, the U.S. diplomat stated negotiations were continuing. The talks are part of a fragile deal to end the war between the two nations, with discussions also covering Iran's nuclear program and frozen assets.

High-level officials from Iran and the United States met in Switzerland, agreeing on a roadmap towards a final deal to end their war. Mediators Pakistan and Qatar announced that negotiators reached an agreement on a 60-day timeline for a final deal, with technical talks continuing in Burgenstock. Key progress was made on establishing communication lines to keep the Strait of Hormuz open and creating a "deconfliction cell" to prevent renewed fighting in Lebanon. The talks, led by US Vice President JD Vance and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, followed a preliminary deal and aimed to address issues stemming from recent escalations, including attacks on Iran and subsequent actions in Lebanon. Despite initial threats from US President Donald Trump, the parties engaged in constructive dialogue, with Iran achieving its conditions for moving forward with technical discussions.

U.S. and Iranian negotiators are meeting in Switzerland to implement an interim agreement, but a dispute over billions in frozen Iranian assets threatens its durability. Iran expects the return of $6 billion in funds from Qatar, while former President Trump stated any release of frozen assets is conditional on Iran upholding commitments. The core disagreement centers on control and monitoring of these funds, with Iran emphasizing sovereignty and the U.S. seeking to attach conditions to their use, primarily for humanitarian purchases. Western intelligence officials are concerned that unfrozen funds could be diverted to regional conflicts, a concern Iran has reportedly signaled to Hezbollah. The talks aim for a comprehensive agreement, with technical teams negotiating the final deal and oversight groups monitoring implementation.

US and Iranian delegations are meeting in Switzerland for crucial talks mediated by Qatar and Pakistan, with Lebanon's escalating conflict topping the agenda. This meeting follows a memorandum of understanding signed between the US and Iran aimed at ending the "US-Israel war on Iran." The talks, led by US Vice President JD Vance and Iran's Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, will focus on progress regarding the nuclear issue and a ceasefire in Lebanon. Iran's delegation aims to ensure full implementation of the interim deal and US commitments. The intensified Israeli attacks on Lebanon, which have led Iran's IRGC to close the Strait of Hormuz, threaten the recent agreement. Regional powers are also engaging in parallel diplomatic efforts.

US Vice President JD Vance is leading talks with Iran in Switzerland aimed at progressing on nuclear issues and a ceasefire in Lebanon. The negotiations are complicated by Iran's decision to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed, a protest against former President Trump's perceived inability to end fighting in Lebanon. The agenda also includes opening the strait, lifting US sanctions on Iranian oil, and unfreezing Iranian assets. The talks, mediated by Pakistan and Qatar, are taking place at a Swiss resort. Iranian negotiators, including the speaker of parliament and central bank governor, indicate a focus on sanctions relief. However, internal Iranian debate exists regarding the scope and trustworthiness of negotiations, with some officials claiming the talks deviate from Supreme Leader guidelines.

The United States and Iran have initiated talks in Switzerland regarding an initial peace deal, following recent fighting in Lebanon and Iran's assertion of having shut the Strait of Hormuz. Under this proposed agreement, Iran would reopen the vital shipping channel, and the US would lift its military blockade on Iranian ports. The deal also includes a $300 billion reconstruction plan for Iran and the termination of all US sanctions. However, negotiations on Iran's nuclear program, a primary US concern, are still pending. While the agreement stipulated an end to fighting, conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has persisted, leading to accusations of ceasefire violations by Iran.

US Vice President JD Vance arrived in Switzerland on June 21, 2026, for talks with Iranian officials to implement a recent interim deal aimed at ending the US-Iran war. An Iranian delegation, including parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, also arrived for the negotiations, with Pakistan's Prime Minister and army chief present as mediators. The deal, which extends a ceasefire for 60 days and includes talks on Iran's nuclear program, is already facing strain. Iran's IRGC declared the Strait of Hormuz shut, citing Israeli attacks in Lebanon as violations of the interim deal, though the US military stated commercial vessels continued to transit the waterway. Iran seeks the implementation of the deal's clauses, including a ceasefire on all fronts and the lifting of sanctions.

US Vice-President J.D. Vance and Iranian negotiators have arrived in Switzerland for new talks concerning the Middle East war. These negotiations aim to address Iran's nuclear program and a ceasefire in Lebanon. The talks were postponed from Friday after Israel conducted strikes in Lebanon, which followed the deaths of four Israeli soldiers. Despite a US-announced ceasefire, clashes between Israeli troops and Hezbollah fighters resumed on Saturday. Iran announced it was closing the Strait of Hormuz to vessel traffic, citing a US "breach of contract" and Israel's "continuous and relentless violation of the ceasefire in southern Lebanon." The Strait of Hormuz is a critical route for oil and gas shipments.

An interim agreement between the US and Iran, signed on Wednesday, calls for an immediate and permanent end to military operations on all fronts, including Lebanon. However, Israeli attacks on Lebanon have continued, leading Iran to postpone planned talks with the US. Analysts suggest Israel may be attempting to undermine the agreement by escalating conflict in Lebanon, which Iran considers essential to the deal's success. While the US has expressed dissatisfaction with Israel's operations, Israel maintains its need to continue. The situation in Lebanon could either solidify or derail the broader Iran-US negotiations, depending on whether Israel ceases its military actions and the US can exert pressure.

Bipartisan criticism has emerged regarding a provisional deal between the US and Iran, even as President Trump issued new threats against Tehran. Republicans like Senator John Cornyn and Democrats such as Susan Rice and Senator Cory Booker have voiced strong objections, calling the agreement a "surrender" and "flimsy" due to concessions granted upfront, including Iran's ability to sell oil unimpeded. This criticism comes as Trump threatened renewed attacks if Iran doesn't curb its proxy in Lebanon. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance hailed progress in direct peace talks in Switzerland, stating negotiators had already made significant headway. The US energy secretary noted that US military actions have altered Iran's leverage in negotiations.

US-Iran talks are set to begin Sunday in Switzerland, according to Pakistan, following a postponement. The negotiations aim to finalize a deal after both sides signed a memorandum of understanding for a permanent end to military operations. This comes amid heightened tensions, with Iran announcing the closure of the Strait of Hormuz again due to continued Israeli attacks in Lebanon. Iran views these attacks as a breach of the MoU. US negotiators are already in Switzerland, with Vice President JD Vance expected to join soon. Pakistani and Qatari mediators will also participate in the talks, which are scheduled to start technical-level discussions.

Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, citing Israel's ongoing attacks in Lebanon and what it describes as US bad faith and a breach of commitments. This action comes as Iran's negotiating team prepares to travel to Switzerland for technical-level talks on Sunday, mediated by Pakistan and Qatar. However, Iranian officials have indicated that little progress is expected from these discussions until Iran perceives the US as upholding its commitments. The Strait of Hormuz closure is presented as a warning, with further steps planned if the aggression continues.

US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are reportedly heading to Switzerland for postponed negotiations with Iran aimed at cementing a peace deal. These talks, intended to get technical discussions back on track, are facing pressure from recent Israeli strikes in Lebanon. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is also expected in Switzerland, with Iran viewing a ceasefire in Lebanon as crucial for the diplomatic process. The article states that at least five people were killed in Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon shortly after a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah took effect. No new date for the US-Iran negotiations has been announced.

Iran's rival political factions are divided over a recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the United States. Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, while granting permission for the deal, expressed reservations and stipulated conditions, including explicit acceptance of responsibility by President Masoud Pezeshkian. Pezeshkian, a moderate, views the MoU as a historic document promoting peace through mutual respect, while hardliners criticize the deal and warn of potential renewed conflict with the US. Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the chief negotiator, acknowledged the MoU as a starting point for difficult negotiations and emphasized the need for decision-making authority to address Iran's economic pressures exacerbated by war. Hardliners are protesting, demanding concessions like control of the Strait of Hormuz and threatening repercussions if the Supreme Leader's conditions are not met.

Following a 110-day war, Iran's new leadership faces a critical juncture regarding negotiations with the US over its nuclear program. Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, despite opposing the deal in principle, has deferred to President Masoud Pezeshkian, seeking assurances against excessive US demands. This situation presents a debate within the US administration on whether Iran's new leadership is ideologically driven or pragmatic, with differing assessments from figures like Donald Trump and CIA Director John Ratcliffe. Some hardliners believe Iran's deterrent power lies in its geography, not nuclear weapons, and advocate for stability. The public appears to desire a return to normalcy, while hardline factions like the Paydari Front oppose engagement with the West.

Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon on Saturday killed at least 16 people, according to local authorities, despite reports of a renewed ceasefire. The strikes targeted the Nabatieh district and included an attack on a residential building that killed a family of four. This escalation followed an incident where Hezbollah claimed to have killed four Israeli soldiers, prompting retaliatory Israeli attacks that reportedly killed 47 people. The renewed fighting forced mediators to cancel US-Iran peace talks in Switzerland, which were intended to build upon a recently signed interim agreement that calls for a cessation of hostilities. Both Israel and Hezbollah have stated conditions for a lasting ceasefire, with Israel vowing to eliminate threats and Hezbollah demanding withdrawal.

United States Vice President JD Vance defended a new memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Iran aimed at ending the war, which initiates a 60-day negotiation period for a final deal. However, Vance's planned trip to Switzerland for peace talks was postponed due to overnight Israeli bombings in southern Lebanon that killed at least three people. Iran has not confirmed its negotiators' travel, stating they need to see implementation of the interim agreement, which includes Lebanon in the ceasefire. The agreement, signed by both presidents, is intended to end months of conflict, though its terms and Tehran's commitment are questioned by critics. Israeli attacks in Lebanon continued despite the interim agreement calling for an end to military operations on all fronts.

US-Iran talks in Switzerland have been postponed after a US official, Vance, canceled his trip. The negotiations were intended to focus on implementing a recently agreed-upon deal and discussing Iran's nuclear program. The deal reportedly includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, a reconstruction plan for Iran, and the termination of US sanctions. Iran's Supreme Leader approved the deal, though he expressed reservations about US tactics. The postponement is linked to ongoing clashes in Lebanon, with Hezbollah-linked media reporting the suspension due to Israeli air strikes. While Iran insists on Lebanon's inclusion in any ceasefire, Israel rejects this, viewing its conflict with Hezbollah as separate. President Trump stated he expects a ceasefire on all fronts.

US-Iran talks scheduled for Friday in Switzerland were abruptly canceled due to escalating conflict between Hezbollah and Israel in Lebanon. The negotiations, aimed at implementing a peace deal and addressing Iran's nuclear program, were set to begin two days after a memorandum of understanding was signed. The cancellation occurred as Hezbollah launched rockets at Israeli forces and Israel responded with airstrikes in southern Lebanon, resulting in casualties. White House officials stated that technical talks would resume as soon as possible, but the US delegation, led by JD Vance, would not be traveling. Iran's negotiators indicated a need to see US implementation of the interim agreement before proceeding. Israel, not party to the US-Iran talks, continued its military campaign, accusing Hezbollah of ceasefire violations, which Hezbollah reciprocated.

A fragile US-Iran peace agreement is jeopardized by Israel's intensified bombing campaign in southern Lebanon. The agreement, signed earlier this week, triggered a 60-day negotiation period for a formal peace deal, with initial talks scheduled in Switzerland. However, US Vice President JD Vance cancelled his trip after Israeli attacks killed at least 18 people, prompting Iran to state its negotiators would not proceed until the agreement, which includes Lebanon in a ceasefire, shows signs of implementation. Israel, which occupies a fifth of Lebanon and has conducted near-daily attacks since March, has stated its forces will not withdraw. The ongoing Israeli bombardment is seen by analysts as a significant obstacle to ending the regional conflict.

Israel's military is striking Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon, claiming repeated ceasefire violations by the Iran-backed group. Meanwhile, US-Iran talks scheduled for Friday in Switzerland have been abruptly canceled, with reports indicating a memorandum of understanding has already been signed remotely. Senator JD Vance stated that Donald Trump is Israel's sole ally in the world, emphasizing US expectations for a complete ceasefire on all fronts. Iran's Supreme Leader approved the deal with the US, despite reservations, citing assurances from the Iranian president. Iran plans to introduce maritime fees in the Strait of Hormuz, asserting control over the waterway, while the US has ended its blockade there.

President Donald Trump defended a recently signed memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the US and Iran aimed at ending a war. Trump stated the deal amounts to Iran's "unconditional surrender" and that the war has "diminished Iran," claiming the country is "finished." He criticized Democrats and some Republicans who argue the MOU only addresses issues created by the conflict. Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance canceled a planned trip to Switzerland to begin negotiations on issues outlined in the MOU, casting doubt on the deal's longevity. The article notes Israel's ongoing fighting in Lebanon as a potential threat to the diplomatic breakthrough.

A US-Iran agreement, a 14-point Memorandum of Understanding, has been signed, extending a ceasefire and aiming to de-escalate tensions. Key provisions include an immediate and permanent end to military operations on all fronts, including Lebanon, and a commitment from Iran to never possess nuclear weapons. The deal also outlines a $300 billion fund for Iran's reconstruction, though US contribution is not mandated. The agreement, signed by President Trump and Iranian President Pezeshkian, includes a 60-day timeline for negotiating a final deal and mandates the US to end its naval blockade of Iranian ports within 30 days. Iran will facilitate safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, with traffic expected to resume immediately.

Iran plans to implement maritime fees in the Strait of Hormuz within two months, following a 60-day negotiation period triggered by a memorandum of understanding. Tehran asserts control over the strait and rejects a European naval mission. This announcement comes amidst ongoing Israeli-Hezbollah conflict and concerns over Iran's nuclear program. A planned formal ceremony for the memorandum signing was canceled, but technical talks will proceed in Qatar to discuss implementing the agreement, including lifting sanctions on Iran's oil exports and ensuring free passage through the strait. Gulf nations, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, have expressed skepticism about Iran's proposed management of the strait, emphasizing the need to return to previous navigation practices.

The United States and Iran have electronically signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to end the US-Israel war on Iran. US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reached this agreement, which aims to halt the war and energy disruptions impacting the global economy. President Trump signed the MOU at a dinner at the Palace of Versailles, accompanied by French President Emmanuel Macron and Brigitte Macron. Despite the agreement, observers express concerns that the deal is built on unstable foundations, potentially jeopardizing a lasting peace.

Iran and the United States have electronically signed a memorandum of understanding, effective June 18, 2026, to end a nearly four-month conflict involving Iran, the US, and Israel. The agreement includes commitments to cease military operations, prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, and fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated Tehran will closely monitor US compliance and will not fulfill its obligations if the US fails to meet its. Experts anticipate that negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program, which are expected to take place within 60 days, will likely extend beyond this timeframe due to the complexity of issues like uranium enrichment and inspections.

A memorandum of understanding has been signed by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, addressing the consequences of a US-led attack on Iran on February 28th. The conflict resulted in thousands of deaths and a strategic defeat for the US and Israel, while empowering the Iranian regime. Iran's strategy of blocking the Strait of Hormuz forced the US to agree to concessions, including lifting its counter blockade of Iranian ports, waiving sanctions to allow oil exports, and unfreezing Iranian assets abroad. In return, the MOU calls for an end to the war in Lebanon, a condition Israel opposes. The agreement aims to restore the situation to pre-war conditions, allowing for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the resumption of nuclear deal negotiations.

Iran's hardline parliament speaker and key negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, has warned that Tehran will not honor a newly signed memorandum with the U.S. if Washington fails to uphold its commitments. This warning was echoed by IRGC Quds Force commander Esmail Qaani. The memorandum, digitally signed by President Trump and Iranian President Pezeshkian, aims to end a war and resume traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, offering Iran economic relief in exchange for nuclear commitments. The U.S. agreed to lift its naval blockade, work on a reconstruction plan, and terminate sanctions. However, Ghalibaf, a former IRGC commander with a history of threatening U.S. forces, represents a hardline faction, raising concerns among experts about the long-term implications of the deal.

Iran views a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the US as a strategic success, allowing it to claim survival and emergence from conflict stronger. The deal, signed by Presidents Trump and Pezeshkian, establishes a 60-day framework for nuclear program negotiations and mandates an immediate halt to military operations. Key terms include ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, reaffirming Iran's commitment against nuclear weapons, and initiating talks on its enrichment program. In return, the US will begin lifting its naval blockade, issue waivers for oil exports, unfreeze assets, and work towards easing sanctions and a reconstruction plan for Iran. This outcome has led to muted criticism within Iran, as the leadership can present the deal as a victory recognizing its sovereignty and offering economic prospects.

Vice President JD Vance has become the primary defender of a tentative deal to end the war with Iran, a role that contrasts with his past skepticism of foreign interventions. Vance is actively promoting the agreement, giving interviews and releasing videos to champion it, and is set to travel to Switzerland for further negotiations. This prominent role is seen as a gamble for his potential 2028 presidential aspirations, positioning him to take credit if successful but also making him a potential scapegoat if the deal fails. The agreement, digitally signed by the U.S. and Iran, has faced backlash from both Democrats and Republicans, who express concerns about its terms and whether it resolves Iran's nuclear ambitions. Despite criticism, Vance maintains that Iran must adhere to its obligations for any benefits.

The Trump administration has released a 14-point agreement with Iran, described as a "major win" for the US, aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz and preventing a global economic downturn. The deal involves significant concessions to Iran, including the potential return of frozen assets and waivers for oil shipments, in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire and Iran's commitment to not procure nuclear weapons. President Trump stated the agreement averts a "worldwide depression" and indicated the US would not pressure Iran on its ballistic missile program or uranium enrichment for civilian use. The deal, which also includes provisions for Lebanon and the down-blending of enriched uranium, is expected to be formally signed shortly, potentially involving a meeting between President Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

Iran's Foreign Ministry is considering a plan for Presidents Masoud Pezeshkian and Donald Trump to sign a memorandum of understanding in Switzerland. This potential agreement, expected to be signed soon, follows earlier indications that Vice President JD Vance and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf would represent their respective countries. Trump stated he anticipates the deal will be signed "shortly," possibly on Thursday or Friday. The memorandum includes an initial 60-day negotiation period. Additionally, Iran announced that maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz will be normalized within a set timeframe, managed solely by Iran without external involvement.

The U.S. and Iran have reached an interim agreement that includes a 60-day period to negotiate Tehran's nuclear program, a key issue between the two nations. The deal, set to be signed in Switzerland, also involves reopening the Strait of Hormuz and financial incentives for Iran if benchmarks are met. However, there is significant skepticism from lawmakers, advocates, and Israel regarding the deal's feasibility and effectiveness in addressing nuclear talks. Critics point to the lengthy negotiation process of the previous nuclear pact and question the current administration's ability to focus on the complex details required for a nuclear agreement. Republicans emphasize that any deal must be approved by Congress.

Iran's Foreign Minister declared victory after an interim deal to end the war with the United States, but many Iranians do not feel this way. The country has endured over three months of US and Israeli air strikes and a port blockade, exacerbating existing hardship from years of sanctions. Despite the war's end, Iranians remain focused on survival and careful spending, with little optimism for immediate improvement. Interviews reveal concerns about potential new protests fueled by economic anger or a government crackdown, and uncertainty about the durability of the peace deal as further talks are scheduled.