UK condemns Israeli minister over inflammatory Lebanon remarks

British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has condemned inflammatory remarks made by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who posted "all of Lebanon must burn" following a Hezbollah attack that killed four Israeli soldiers. Ben-Gvir's comments, made on X, also stated that "for every tear of an Israeli mother, a thousand Lebanese mothers must weep" and called for Lebanon to be "obliterated." Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded by calling Israel a "genocidal death cult" and a threat to humanity. Additionally, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that 200,000 displaced residents of southern Lebanon would not be allowed to return to their homes. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich also called for "opening the gates of hell" in Lebanon.

Iran is pressing the United States to ensure Israel complies with a ceasefire agreement in Lebanon, viewing it as a test of US influence. Tehran insists that the deal requires an end to hostilities across the region, including in Lebanon, and states it is ready for diplomacy with the US if Washington upholds this condition. While a US official reported an agreement between Israel and Hezbollah for a ceasefire, reports indicate continued Israeli attacks. Analysts suggest that linking the Lebanon conflict to a broader US-Iran agreement could be counterproductive for Iran, and that achieving a comprehensive deal within the current timeframe will be challenging due to deep mistrust and technical complexities.

The US State Department announced that a new round of talks between Israel and Lebanon will take place in Washington, D.C. next week, on June 23rd and 25th. This comes after Israel and Hezbollah declared a renewed ceasefire, following a US-Iran memorandum to end the war. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized to Lebanese President Joseph Aoun that these bilateral negotiations are crucial for Lebanon's reconstruction, economic recovery, and ending cycles of violence. The talks aim for progress toward a lasting peace between the two sovereign governments. While previous talks have not included Hezbollah, leading to continued exchanges of fire, the Lebanese government is seeking to disarm Hezbollah as part of a US-backed roadmap.

Analysts argue that Israel's ongoing military operations in Lebanon are the primary obstacle to the US-Iran ceasefire deal. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the US and Iran calls for a permanent cessation of hostilities on all fronts, including Lebanon, but Israel has continued its attacks and invasion. Iran has stated it will not finalize a ceasefire agreement while Lebanon is under fire, leading to the postponement of technical talks. Analysts like Trita Parsi and Ryan Costello emphasize that Lebanon is crucial for Iran and poses the "greatest vulnerability" and "greatest test" for the deal. Despite US President Trump's calls for a complete ceasefire, Israel has maintained its actions, leading to concerns about a potential breakdown in negotiations and a return to fighting.

Following two wars, US-Iran diplomacy regarding Iran's nuclear program has returned to its previous state. On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signed a memorandum of understanding to initiate talks. These discussions are expected to largely re-establish the diplomatic track that the US broke off in February. This previous track was built upon negotiations mediated by Oman, as part of a broader Gulf diplomatic initiative involving Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. During those earlier talks, both the US and Iran had been discussing the potential framework for Iran's nuclear program.

The United States announced a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah following continued clashes in southern Lebanon. These exchanges reportedly began when Hezbollah ambushed an Israeli group, killing four soldiers, including a battalion commander. In response to the deaths, Israel's National Security Minister made inflammatory remarks about Lebanon. Iran's Foreign Minister accused Israel of seeking permanent war and warned that any breaches would be attributed to the US. Both Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Hezbollah face domestic pressure to continue military operations, with Hezbollah vowing to persist as long as Israel's invasion of southern Lebanon continues. An Israeli military spokesperson stated that Israel would continue to address threats and respond to Hezbollah's violations.

Former President Barack Obama stated in an interview that the U.S. is "worse off" after a 15-week war with Iran, despite a recent ceasefire agreement signed by Donald Trump. Obama expressed happiness about the ceasefire and hopes it will hold, while also criticizing Trump's decision to withdraw from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA), which he believes led to Iran developing more nuclear capacity. Iran's chief negotiator indicated that future talks must respect Tehran's "red lines." The article also notes differing views on the economic impact of the agreement, with some expecting falling gas prices and others predicting a rise in oil prices.

A 2015 law, the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act (INARA), is central to a debate over whether President Trump must submit a recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Iran to Congress. The law requires congressional review and a potential vote of disapproval for any agreements related to Iran's nuclear program. Lawmakers and pro-Israel groups are citing INARA, arguing the MoU, which lifts sanctions and halts fighting, falls under its purview. While Trump has expressed openness to congressional review, his administration has not officially stated whether the MoU is subject to the law. Legal experts suggest INARA applies to the MoU and any future nuclear deal, though some argue the law hinders diplomacy.

US President Donald Trump has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Iran, which has drawn criticism from some Republican lawmakers. The 14-point agreement, signed on Wednesday, commits both nations to an immediate and permanent end to military operations on all fronts and includes Iran's pledge to not procure or develop nuclear weapons. In return, the US has pledged to develop a plan to provide $300 billion for Iran's reconstruction and development, and Iran agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Republican Senators Bill Cassidy and Thomas Massie have voiced strong opposition, with Cassidy calling the MoU "the worst foreign policy blunder in decades" and Massie criticizing the financial assistance plan.

A handful of Senate Republicans have criticized an interim deal reached by the Trump administration with Iran to end a 110-day conflict. Senator Bill Cassidy called the agreement "the worst foreign policy blunder in decades," arguing it fails to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions and makes concessions while 13 Americans are dead. The deal, which aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and prevent a global depression, includes Iran's commitment to destroy its enriched uranium stockpile. While some Republicans, like Lindsey Graham, expressed initial concern but later found the deal potentially beneficial, others, such as Thom Tillis, are worried about a reported $300 billion fund for Iran. The memorandum of understanding gives both sides 60 days to negotiate a comprehensive final agreement.

Republican leaders and conservative allies are expressing strong reservations and condemnation regarding President Trump's agreement to end the fighting in Iran. The memorandum of understanding initiates a 60-day negotiation period for a final deal on Iran's nuclear program. Key points of criticism include the lifting of economic sanctions on Iran's oil sales and a proposed $300 billion fund for Iran's reconstruction, which some senators view as overly generous. While Trump allies acknowledge the deal is not final and that U.S. taxpayers would not fund the reconstruction, critics like Senator Roger Wicker and Senator Ted Cruz argue against providing significant financial aid to Iran. President Trump has dismissed these criticisms as "fake news" and called his critics "fools."

Recent reports highlight tensions between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, particularly concerning Israel's actions in Lebanon following a US-Iran deal. Trump has publicly expressed displeasure with Israel's bombing of Lebanon and its handling of Hezbollah, urging Netanyahu to be more responsible. Despite these reported rifts, the article notes that such public disputes between US and Israeli leaders have historically not altered US policy or military support for Israel. Past US presidents, including Barack Obama and Dwight D. Eisenhower, have also experienced significant disagreements with Israeli leaders, yet US support for Israel has remained consistent.

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.

The United States and Iran have electronically signed a memorandum of understanding, brokered by Pakistan, to extend a 60-day ceasefire in their war, which began on February 28. The agreement, effective Wednesday, also includes Iran's reaffirmation to not develop nuclear weapons and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. US officials stated the deal aims to pave the way for further negotiations on Iran's nuclear program, sanctions, and frozen assets. While welcomed by Pakistan, France, and some US Republicans, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson emphasized monitoring US compliance and stated Iran's missile program would not be part of negotiations. The IAEA Director-General welcomed the agreement, noting that technical work on Iran's nuclear program will now commence.

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.

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.

US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that an agreement had been reached with Iran on Sunday, aiming to end a conflict and prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Speaking at a press conference in France on the sidelines of the G7 summit, Trump described the arrangement as a significant achievement that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz. He stated that the deal was intended to be permanent, warning that Iran would face bombing if it did not adhere to the agreement. Trump asserted that the deal accomplished "everything we set out to accomplish, everything and much more."

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.

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.

Iran's top diplomat, Abbas Araghchi, stated that a peace deal with the US hinges on Israel's withdrawal from Lebanese territories occupied during the current conflict. This assertion comes as concerns grow that Israeli actions could jeopardize diplomatic efforts to end the Middle East war. US President Donald Trump criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's conduct in Lebanon, calling a recent bombing of Beirut "vicious" and suggesting Syria might handle Hezbollah more effectively. Trump's remarks indicate potential impatience with Israel's stance, which could impact a 60-day ceasefire negotiated with Iran. European leaders are also expressing concerns about the durability of the peace plan, particularly regarding the lack of detail in a memorandum of understanding concerning the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear program.

G7 leaders are meeting in France to discuss key global issues, with Iran and Ukraine at the forefront of their agenda. French President Emmanuel Macron stated that the summit's working lunch would focus on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and identifying alternative energy routes. A preliminary deal between the US and Iran, digitally signed on Monday, is expected to be formally finalized on Friday in Geneva. This agreement aims to open a 60-day window for negotiations regarding Iran's enriched uranium and the lifting of sanctions. US President Donald Trump is likely to be urged to finalize an agreement to end the conflict in the Middle East. Leaders from the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Egypt will also attend the talks.

European leaders at the G7 summit in France urged US President Donald Trump to host talks between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin to resolve the conflict. Trump acknowledged the significant animosity between the leaders, which hinders settlement, and pledged to assist. Zelenskyy, seeking US mediation, met with Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron, presenting Ukraine as no longer losing on the battlefield. G7 leaders agreed to increase sanctions on Russian energy. European leaders, alongside the UK and Germany, hope Trump's involvement could facilitate future negotiations, while also seeking direct representation in any talks.

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.

At the G7 summit in France, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledged new sanctions against Russia and significant energy support for Ukraine. The sanctions will target Russia's financial networks and its "shadow fleet" of oil and LNG tankers, with over 600 vessels expected to be affected. Additionally, Starmer announced £210 million in nuclear energy support for Ukraine over two years, aimed at powering the country through upcoming winters. This commitment, including supplying enriched uranium from a UK-government-owned company, reinforces the UK's stance to support Ukraine for as long as necessary. The summit also addresses global issues like the US-Iran peace deal and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran's state-controlled media is portraying a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the U.S. as a victory over the U.S. and Israel. The deal, set to be signed in Switzerland on June 19, reportedly addresses the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear program. Iranian officials claim the U.S. was "forced" to sign the agreement to end conflict. President Trump announced the deal's completion, authorizing the opening of the Strait of Hormuz and the removal of the U.S. naval blockade. While some details remain unconfirmed, including sanctions relief and uranium enrichment timelines, Iran's Supreme National Security Council stated military operations will cease. Experts caution that Iran's history suggests a pattern of delay and deceit in agreements.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that Pakistan successfully mediated a tentative agreement between the United States and Iran to end over 100 days of war. Sharif specifically praised Pakistan's Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, for his persistent efforts in keeping negotiations alive during critical moments. The deal, expected to be finalized in Geneva this week, calls for an immediate and permanent cessation of military operations. Key provisions include the lifting of the US naval blockade of Iran within 30 days and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The agreement was reached under Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, and US President Donald Trump confirmed the deal.

Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Israeli forces will not withdraw from territory seized in southern Lebanon. This comes after the US and Iran announced a preliminary agreement to end hostilities in the Middle East, pending a final settlement in approximately two months. The interim deal, which includes a ceasefire in Lebanon, has reportedly caused anger and concern among Israeli officials who were not involved in the negotiations. Despite the agreement, Israel intends to maintain its presence in occupied territories indefinitely and has warned of strong retaliation if Iran attacks in response to Israeli actions in Lebanon. The exact details of the US-Iran agreement remain unclear, but it appears to include a halt to Hezbollah's attacks on Israel.

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 completed deal with Iran, signaling an end to a global conflict with unclear objectives and no obvious endgame. Iranian officials and Pakistan, acting as mediator, confirmed the agreement, which Iran's deputy foreign minister stated would bring an "immediate end" to the war, including in Lebanon. The conflict, which involved a US military offensive and retaliatory Iranian strikes that closed the Strait of Hormuz, resulted in thousands of casualties. Details of the peace deal remain unclear, though world leaders have welcomed the news. The article also briefly mentions other news items including a British naval capture of a Russian oil tanker, damage to a Ukrainian cathedral, ongoing defense review discussions, a rare bird sighting in Wales, and the detention of Tommy Robinson.

Asian stock markets surged following the announcement of a deal between Washington and Tehran to end hostilities and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Major indices in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Australia, and Hong Kong saw significant gains. US stock futures also climbed. In contrast, Brent crude oil prices fell over 4 percent. US President Donald Trump announced the ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, stating he authorized the removal of the US naval blockade of Iranian ports. Iran's Supreme National Security Council and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs confirmed the agreement, which is expected to ease inflation concerns for central banks.

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.

Following a preliminary deal between the United States and Iran, oil prices have plunged, signaling market optimism. This development has raised questions about whether Chinese firms previously sanctioned for Iran-related business will experience immediate relief. Analysts express caution, noting that while new Iranian oil purchases may not face fresh sanctions, existing sanctions on Chinese importers are unlikely to be lifted swiftly. The US-Iran accord reportedly includes commitments to lift maritime blockades and issue waivers for Iranian oil exports, with a pathway to broader sanctions relief under a future final agreement.

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.

US President Donald Trump announced that a deal to end the war with Iran could be signed as early as Sunday, June 15, 2026. Iran, however, has rejected this specific timeline, stating the signing could occur in the "coming days." Trump indicated that the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened to all once the agreement is finalized and expressed the US intention to eventually acquire Iran's nuclear material. The article suggests both nations appear close to signing the initial phase of a peace deal, though they disagree on the exact timing.

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.

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.

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.

President Donald Trump announced that a deal to end fighting between the US and Iran is scheduled to be signed on Sunday, which he stated would reopen the Strait of Hormuz to all. This announcement came as Iran's foreign ministry expressed caution, stating that an exact signing date had not been decided but indicated it would not be on Saturday. Pakistan, acting as a mediator, also confirmed the deal was expected within 24 hours and preparations for electronic signing were underway. Trump further mentioned a plan to address Iran's enriched uranium stockpiles at an appropriate time. He also issued a warning about an "ultimate alternative" if the situation did not resolve smoothly.

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.

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.

Funeral processions for Iran's former Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, are scheduled to take place between July 4 and 9. Khamenei was killed in late February during a war initiated by Israel and the United States against Iran. His son, Mojtaba, has succeeded him as Supreme Leader. This announcement comes as mediators report an agreement to end the war is nearing finalization. Pakistan's Prime Minister stated that a deal is closer than ever and expected to be concluded within 24 hours, with technical talks to follow.

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.