Does Trump have to submit the Iran memorandum of understanding to Congress?

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.

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.

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.

President Trump has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Iran to end a war, electronically signed near Paris on Wednesday, June 18, 2026. The 14-point framework commits Iran to not procure or develop nuclear weapons in exchange for sanctions relief, a $300 billion reconstruction plan, and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts caution that it is too early to compare this MOU to the 2015 JCPOA nuclear agreement, as the MOU focuses on a ceasefire and leaves Iran's nuclear program details for future negotiation. The MOU's commitment on nuclear weapons is seen by some as preserving the status quo, as intelligence agencies had previously concluded Iran was not actively developing them. The JCPOA, a multi-party agreement, had detailed measures for uranium enrichment and monitoring, unlike the current bilateral MOU.

A new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the US and Iran aims to address the conflict that began on February 28th. This deal differs from the 2015 JCPOA by focusing on a framework for 60 days of talks rather than a final agreement. Key areas examined include weapons, money, and ships. While the MoU reaffirms Iran will not develop nuclear weapons, it lacks specific details on enrichment levels and stockpile disposition, unlike the JCPOA's strict limitations. The new agreement also makes no mention of Iran's ballistic missiles, a point previously raised by President Trump. Regarding money, the MoU states the US will terminate all sanctions, a significant shift from the JCPOA's sanctions relief and asset unfreezing.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

At the G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, French President Emmanuel Macron announced a "re-synchronisation" of positions on Ukraine, stating that all G7 leaders, including US President Donald Trump, now recognize Ukraine's territorial integrity and acknowledge Russia's lack of willingness to discuss peace. Macron described this as a "very deep change" in the US approach and a "profound shift and remobilisation of the G7." The summit's joint communique included a vow to increase sanctions on Russia, and the US and European G7 countries agreed to produce long-range missiles and air-defence systems under license in Ukraine. Trump also met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who updated him on military progress.

US President Donald Trump indicated that a planned memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Iran, intended to begin ending their war, might not be signed on Friday as scheduled. Speaking at the G7 summit, Trump stated that deals can fall through, but also suggested the signing could happen sooner. The MOU reportedly includes lifting the US naval blockade, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and issuing sanctions waivers for Iran's fossil fuel industry. It also outlines a 60-day negotiation period for more complex issues like Iran's nuclear program and support for regional proxies. Trump also threatened to bomb Iran if they do not "behave." The secrecy surrounding the MOU's text has drawn criticism from both Democrats and Republicans in the US.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that G7 leaders at their summit in France pledged increased support for Ukraine's defense against Russia's ongoing invasion. Key commitments include strengthening Ukraine's air defenses and ensuring its energy supply, alongside escalating international economic pressure on Moscow through new sanctions. Leaders also indicated they would consider granting Ukraine licenses to manufacture Western weapons. This G7 backing is described as exceptionally strong, sending a clear message to Russia. The summit occurred as Ukraine officially began its EU membership negotiations. Separately, Russia claimed a Ukrainian drone attacked a bus with children, an accusation Ukraine denied as a fabrication.

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.

At the G7 summit in France, President Donald Trump expressed satisfaction with the meeting, citing unity among leaders regarding a tentative agreement with Iran to end the war. This marked a shift from his previous criticism of allies for not supporting military action against Iran. G7 leaders welcomed the Iran deal, acknowledging Trump's leadership, and also expressed unwavering support for Ukraine, a stance Trump joined despite his prior skepticism. Discussions also addressed China's economic practices, with leaders agreeing to coordinated actions against economic coercion, though Trump later thanked China and Russia for remaining neutral in the Iran conflict. Trump also indicated he would credit Vice President JD Vance if the Iran deal succeeds but blame him if it fails.

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.

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.

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.

At the G7 summit in France, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Russia should negotiate a peace deal with Ukraine. Trump expressed his intention to do everything he can to end the conflict, calling the casualties "ridiculous." He described his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and other G7 leaders as "very good" and indicated he would hold a bilateral meeting with Zelensky later. Trump arrived at the summit with a preliminary deal to end the conflict with Iran and a renewed focus on resolving the war in Ukraine.

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.

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.

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 US and Iran have reached a deal, brokered by Pakistan, aimed at easing regional tensions. The agreement reportedly includes the lifting of Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the US blockade of Iranian ports, which could provide economic relief to both the global economy and Iran. A key component of the deal, according to Pakistan's Prime Minister, is the immediate and permanent termination of military operations, including in Lebanon. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not indicated a willingness to end Israel's offensive against Hezbollah in Lebanon, and recent Israeli strikes have nearly jeopardized the agreement. Iran reportedly refrained from further missile attacks on Israel to facilitate the deal's finalization.

A new US-Iran deal is set to be signed, aiming to restart nuclear talks in Geneva. The article argues this deal largely returns the situation to its pre-war state, despite a "feckless war of choice" initiated by the US and Israel. This conflict resulted in significant loss of life and irrevocably changed Iran, strengthening its military at the expense of civilian governance. Donald Trump is claiming credit for resolving issues his war created, such as the Strait of Hormuz closure, but the article notes ambiguities remain regarding Iran's "service fees" and frozen assets. The deal also faces challenges from Israel's stance on the conflict with Hezbollah and internal political pressures in both the US and Iran, while the core nuclear dispute remains unresolved.

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.

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.

Global oil prices have fallen significantly, with Brent crude dropping below $84 a barrel, following news of a US-Iran peace deal. This optimism stems from the expectation that the Strait of Hormuz may soon reopen, allowing for the return of Gulf oil exports. President Trump announced the deal was "complete," despite recent tensions. However, details remain unclear, including the timing of the strait's reopening and oversight of safe passage. Iranian authorities have indicated a 60-day negotiation period for a final agreement addressing wider issues like the nuclear program and sanctions. Analysts caution that complex negotiations lie ahead, potentially limiting further significant price drops in the near term.

Oil prices declined in Asia after Pakistan announced a deal between the US and Iran, brokered by Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. President Donald Trump stated the agreement will lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz shipping route, a critical waterway for global oil and LNG. Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi confirmed the deal's finalization. The Strait of Hormuz had been effectively closed since late February following US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, with Tehran threatening vessels. Brent crude fell 4.8% to $83.18 a barrel, and US-traded oil dropped 5.6% to $80.13. An official signing ceremony is scheduled for June 19 in Switzerland.

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.

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.

United States President Donald Trump announced on his Truth Social account that an initial agreement to end the war with Iran is scheduled to be signed the following day. This statement contradicts an earlier announcement by Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei, who stated that a memorandum of understanding would not be signed on Sunday and that a signing could occur "in the coming days." Both sides have indicated a deal is close, but have diverged on details and timelines. Trump claimed the deal would open the Strait of Hormuz, prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, and involve no money exchange. However, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the initial memorandum as a launch point for future negotiations.

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.

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.

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.

Iran has announced the funeral and burial dates for its late Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. Funeral ceremonies are scheduled to begin in Tehran on July 4, followed by another ceremony in Qom on July 7. Khamenei will be buried in his hometown of Mashhad on July 9. He was killed in a joint US-Israeli air strike in February. Khamenei had led Iran since 1989. His successor, Mojtaba Khamenei, has reportedly taken a more active role amid ongoing negotiations between Iran and the US, following an April 8 truce.

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.

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.

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.

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.