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.

US Vice President JD Vance defended a new deal with Iran, asserting that Donald Trump is Israel's sole ally and criticizing Israeli officials who have attacked the agreement. Vance highlighted the billions in US defense aid provided to Israel, emphasizing that American taxpayers fund a significant portion of its defensive weapons. He urged Israeli critics to recognize Trump as their most powerful ally and cautioned them against misidentifying the US president as their primary problem. The article notes that Israeli officials, speaking anonymously, expressed concerns that the deal inadequately addresses Iran's nuclear and missile programs, a sentiment reportedly shared across Israeli leadership. Trump, in response to Vance's remarks, encouraged negotiations and a ceasefire on all fronts in the region.

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.

J.D. Vance has emerged as a prominent defender of the Iran deal, facing criticism while President Trump, who previously joked he would blame Vance if the deal failed, downplayed its significance. Despite Trump signing a copy of the deal with French President Macron, Vance continued to defend it in public appearances. This defense comes amid speculation about Vance's potential 2028 presidential run. While Vance was scheduled to attend a signing event in Geneva, the White House later announced he would not be traveling there for the time being due to unfinalized logistics for talks with Iran. Meanwhile, Republican Senators criticized the deal for allegedly conceding too much to Iran.

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.

The US has lifted a naval blockade as part of a new agreement with Iran, which Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, stated was signed by Donald Trump "out of desperation." Trump expressed expectations for a ceasefire on all fronts, including between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, and for Middle Eastern countries to uphold commitments to ongoing negotiations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized strong US-Israel ties following the deal, despite some cabinet members criticizing it. US Senator J.D. Vance urged critics to consider the reality of Israel's situation and its reliance on its allies. The agreement, which centers on 14 points, includes an end to conflict on all fronts, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and a commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, alongside a fund for Iran's economic development. However, strikes between Israel and Hezbollah have continued since the announcement.

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.

US Vice President JD Vance defended a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to end the US-Iran war, framing it as a victory for Washington regardless of future negotiations. Speaking after the MoU was inked by Presidents Trump and Pezeshkian, Vance criticized Israeli leaders for pushing for continued conflict, stating Israel "can't just kill your way out of solving every single national security problem." He urged Israel to allow negotiations to proceed, highlighting the US's long-standing partnership. Vance asserted that the US-led war had degraded Iran's nuclear capacity, military, and economy, creating favorable circumstances. The MoU includes opening the Strait of Hormuz, lifting a naval blockade, and ending fighting, though issues like Iran's ballistic missiles and nuclear program remain for future talks.

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.

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.

US Vice President JD Vance has criticized members of the Israeli government. The criticism stems from their opposition to US President Donald Trump's efforts regarding the Iran deal. Vance's remarks indicate a disagreement between the US administration and certain Israeli officials concerning the approach to the Iran deal. The specific details of the criticism and the context of the "when" and "where" are not provided in the article content. However, the core issue is the Israeli government's negative stance on Trump's Iran deal initiatives, which Vance has publicly condemned.

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.

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.

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."

An initial US-Iran agreement has been reached, but significant details remain to be negotiated. While President Trump has stated the deal prevents Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, the agreement's text does not explicitly guarantee this outcome. The 60-day negotiation period following the scheduled signing will address technicalities and timelines. Contrary to Trump's assertion that the US will not provide funds, the agreement states the US will work with partners to develop a plan for Iran's reconstruction involving at least $300 billion. A senior US official claims the US is not committed to direct payment, but the agreement's language is unclear, potentially allowing for future US payments as part of a settlement. This ambiguity could pose a political challenge for Trump and Vice-President Vance, particularly with their anti-interventionist base.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.