Day 111 | US, Iranian presidents sign deal to end war

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Read more: Day 112 | Vance defends Iran deal, Khamenei says approved it despite having “different view”

• Pezeshkian calls Khamenei's message a roadmap for upcoming negotiations.
• Pledges to protect Iran’s rights and the Resistance Front.
• Says national interests, dignity, and power remain red lines.

Following a strategic address by Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued an official response welcoming the Leader's guidance.

Pezeshkian framed the Supreme Leader's message as an authoritative framework to guide the country's upcoming diplomatic talks and safeguard its national interests.

Pezeshkian expressed deep gratitude for the Supreme Leader's support of the specialized teams and officials who worked on the recent war-ending agreement.

He noted that the authorization granted by the Leader to initiate the negotiation track brings great satisfaction to public servants.

The President emphasized that all executive and decision-making bodies throughout the country now consider themselves strictly obligated to adhere to the Supreme Leader's guidelines.

Presidential pledge

In his formal communique, Pezeshkian explicitly outlined the responsibilities falling upon his administration and the country's highest security apparatus. He affirmed his complete commitment to addressing the specific concerns raised by the head of state.

"Naturally, I, as the President and the Chairman of the Supreme Security Council, along with the other members of this council, consider ourselves committed to paying maximum attention to his Eminence's concerns and to guarding the rights of the Iranian nation and the Resistance Front," Pezeshkian declared in his message.

By aligning the Supreme National Security Council with the Leader's expectations, the President sought to demonstrate a unified domestic front as the country transitions into active diplomatic engagements.

National dignity as red line 

Looking forward to the next phase of the peace process, Pezeshkian emphasized that the Iranian negotiating team will maintain strict vigilance during the upcoming rounds of talks.

He made it clear that the state's negotiators will approach the fine details of the negotiations with heightened alertness to ensure no foundational principles are compromised.

Pezeshkian concluded his message by reaffirming the unalterable boundaries of the Iranian executive branch, stating that the red lines for all responsible officials remain the national interests, dignity, honor, and authority of the Iranian people.

Backed by the Supreme Leader's guidance and the precision of the diplomatic corps, Pezeshkian expressed absolute confidence that a great victory would ultimately be achieved for the nation.

• JD Vance says Trump remains most sympathetic world leader toward 'Israel'.
• Calls US 'Israel’s' last major global ally.
• Urges 'Israeli' officials to rethink their criticism of Trump.

In a blunt public warning from the White House briefing room, US Vice President JD Vance sharply criticized members of 'Israeli' Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's cabinet for launching public, personal attacks against US President Donald Trump following the announcement of a new regional diplomatic agreement.

Vance did not hide his frustration with the political pushback coming out of Jerusalem, stating directly that the hostile rhetoric from within the 'Israeli' government has become a serious point of contention for the administration.

"What I will say, and this does bother me, is that you've seen people within Bibi's cabinet who have come out and attacked the deal, and in some ways, very personally attacked the President of the United States," Vance told reporters.

The Vice President delivered a two-pronged message aimed directly at the dissenting ministers within Netanyahu’s government, underscoring the severe diplomatic isolation 'Israel' currently faces on the international stage.

Vance reminded the cabinet that President Trump represents a unique and indispensable lifeline for their country in the current geopolitical climate.

"Donald J. Trump is the only head of state in the entire world who is sympathetic to the nation of 'Israel' at this moment in time," Vance stated. "And he happens to be the head of state of the world's superpower."

Closing his remarks, Vance offered a pointed piece of strategic advice to the 'Israeli' ministers, suggesting that alienating the White House during critical regional negotiations is a dangerous diplomatic miscalculation.

The Vice President emphasized that with global pressure mounting, Jerusalem cannot afford to fracture its bilateral relationship with Washington. "If I was in the cabinet of the 'Israeli' government," Vance warned, "I might not be attacking the only powerful ally that I have anywhere left in the entire world."

• Tehran will cover costs under the Islamabad MoU.
• Ships must obtain approval and follow assigned routes.
• Fast-track processing and safety operations have been ordered.

In a major operational move to restore international shipping traffic, Iran's Supreme National Security Council announced that all commercial vessels transiting the strategic Strait of Hormuz will be completely exempt from transit fees for a period of 60 days.

The sweeping economic measure was enacted in direct implementation of Clause 5 of the newly established Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding.

According to the official council statement, the financial waiver is aimed at accelerating the normalization of maritime trade, with the state treasury absorbing the entire financial burden.

"Under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, for a period of 60 days, no fees whatsoever will be collected from applicants, and these costs will be covered by the government of the Islamic Republic of Iran," the Council verified.

Mandatory registration 

While the financial incentives are aimed at drawing commercial fleets back to the vital waterway, the Council emphasized that strict operational guidelines must be maintained due to ongoing security liabilities.

Under the new protocol, all commercial vessels seeking passage through the chokepoint are legally required to submit a formal request to the Persian Gulf Shipping Administration via its official portal (PGSA.ir).

To guarantee safety and prevent any potential maritime accidents or collisions, the Council warned that shipping firms cannot navigate the strait at will.

"Due to special conditions and the existence of certain safety risks along the transit route, and because of the necessity to ensure safe transit and prevent maritime accidents, it is mandatory for ships to transit via the routes and times designated to them," the statement noted.

Fast-tracked approvals 

The Supreme National Security Council has issued binding directives to the Persian Gulf Shipping Administration to eliminate bureaucratic delays.

The authority has been explicitly ordered to process and respond to incoming commercial transit requests with maximum speed and top operational priority to fulfill the baseline objectives of the international accord.

The Council concluded its announcement by stating that the shipping administration will progressively increase traffic capacity as the security environment stabilizes.

Detailed operational arrangements and specific technical parameters regarding the passage will be continuously updated through the PGSA portal.

Furthermore, the council noted that supplementary safety measures required by Clause 5 of the Islamabad agreement, including necessary minesweeping operations, are actively being organized to secure the shipping lane.

• Trump says the US remains committed to peace.
• Urges all regional parties to support diplomacy.
• Highlights rising markets and falling oil prices.
• Expects ceasefires across 'Israel', Lebanon, and Hezbollah fronts.

US President Donald Trump issued a statement via Truth Social reaffirming the United States' commitment to peace in the Middle East and calling on all regional parties to ensure ongoing negotiations are allowed to proceed smoothly.

In his statement, the President urged all factions across the region to remain dedicated to the current diplomatic track. "The United States is committed to PEACE, and we encourage everyone in the Middle East Region to maintain their commitment to allowing our negotiations to beautifully unfold," Trump stated.

"We expect a complete Ceasefire on all fronts, including Lebanon, Hezbollah, and 'Israel'."

Surging stock market 

US President Trump tied the progress of the regional diplomatic efforts directly to positive global economic indicators.

He noted that financial markets have responded favorably to the latest geopolitical developments, resulting in direct relief for energy consumers and a surge in investor confidence.

According to Trump, the economic metrics reflect widespread optimism, oil prices are moving "way down" as regional tensions ease.

Stock market is Moving "way up" in response to the diplomatic progress.

Market outlook is demonstrating that "the Markets are loving what is happening."

Expectations set for total cessation of hostilities

The core of the US President's message centered on an explicit expectation for a total and immediate halt to military operations across all active conflict zones.

Trump specifically named the primary parties involved in the northern front, stating that the anticipated cessation of hostilities must be absolute.

The statement concluded with the President thanking the public and regional actors for their attention to the matter, signaling that the White House expects all sides to maintain stability while the negotiation process continues to move forward.

• Trump calls the claims “fake news” and politically motivated.
• Says the deal boosts markets and lowers oil prices.
• White House frames the pact as a win with no cost to taxpayers.

US President Donald Trump forcefully struck back against domestic critics of his historic diplomatic breakthrough with Iran, issuing an aggressive, late-night Truth Social statement denying that the newly signed peace agreement includes a multi-billion-dollar payout to Tehran.

The statement follows a wave of intense political scrutiny in Washington regarding the hidden terms of the newly implemented digital memorandum of understanding (MOU).

Responding directly to murmurs of a massive financial concession, Trump flatly rejected the specific figure circulating in opposition circles.

"There is no 300 Billion Dollar payment to Iran by the U.S.," Trump posted to his platform in his signature direct style. "That’s Fake News!" He went on to explicitly blame his domestic political opponents for orchestrating the rumors, adding that the allegations are nothing more than "Dumocrat propaganda at play!!!"

Rather than a costly concession, Trump framed the rapid cessation of hostilities and the lifting of the US naval blockade as an unmitigated win for American consumers and global markets.

The White House has sought to tie the immediate real-world outcomes of the truce -such as the massive 12.5 million barrels of oil that safely transited the Strait of Hormuz overnight- directly to domestic economic relief.

"All there is for the U.S. is Success, Lower Oil Prices, and Victory. Check out the Stock Market," the US President declared.

The US President’s defense comes at a critical juncture as US Central Command (CENTCOM) warships transition from active blockade enforcement to a strict treaty-monitoring posture in the Persian Gulf.

By pointing directly to Wall Street’s positive reaction and a steep drop in energy costs, the administration is attempting to solidify public support for the 60-day negotiation window before formal diplomatic teams officially convene in Switzerland.

• Move follows presidential orders tied to a new peace agreement.
• US forces no longer impede merchant shipping near Iran.
• Navy ships remain in the region to monitor compliance.

In a historic operational shift that marks the formal end of intense naval hostilities, US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced Thursday that American military forces have officially lifted the comprehensive blockade on all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports and coastal areas.

The sweeping directive, distributed via a formal statement on X, was executed in direct compliance with executive instructions issued by the US President.

Today, U.S. forces lifted the blockade on all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports and coastal areas, in accordance with the President's direction. American forces are not impeding the transit of vessels to or from Iranian ports on the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of…

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) June 18, 2026

The termination of the blockade follows the successful electronic signing of a war-ending memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Washington and Tehran, which immediately triggered a 60-day diplomatic truce window.

According to the military command, the relief of restrictions applies universally across all vital commercial waterways in the region.

CENTCOM verified that American forces are no longer obstructing, boarding, or impeding the transit of civilian and commercial vessels moving to or from Iranian ports situated along both the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.

The operational stand-down effectively brings an immediate halt to months of high-intensity maritime friction, which had severely choked global supply chains and paralyzed regional energy trade.

CENTCOM explicitly declared that "all US military blockade enforcement efforts have ceased," signaling a rapid de-escalation of the Pentagon's frontline posture.

However, the complete removal of the shipping embargo does not mean an immediate withdrawal of the American strategic footprint from the Middle Eastern theater.

Central Command emphasized that the United States intends to maintain a robust, highly visible naval presence across the region's shipping lanes to safeguard the newly minted diplomatic framework from any potential violations.

"Our great Naval Ships will remain in the general area to make sure that all aspects of the agreement are adhered to, obeyed and in full force and effect," CENTCOM stated in its official briefing.

The strategic pivot to a monitoring posture comes at a vital moment for international trade, directly enabling major regional energy exporters like Kuwait to lift their respective force majeure legal declarations and scale up production benchmarks.

Military analysts note that by maintaining a strong deterrent presence while allowing merchant fleets unhindered access to Iranian waters, CENTCOM is establishing a highly stabilized security environment ahead of the formal bilateral diplomatic negotiations scheduled to commence in Switzerland.

Iran’s Supreme Leader is set to deliver a televised address to the Iranian people after an agreement with the US was reached aimed at ending the war in the Middle East, according to Iran’s Fars News Agency.

• Decision follows restored regional security and Hormuz reopening.
• Kuwait plans to raise oil output to 2 million bpd within a week.
• War-damaged energy facilities repaired and returning to operation.

Signaling an aggressive recovery phase for Gulf energy exporters, the state-run Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) officially announced the immediate lifting of all force majeure declarations enacted during the regional war.

The major contractual reversal enters into effect immediately, following the swift restoration of maritime security and the normalization of international commercial shipping lanes throughout the region.

A force majeure declaration is a legal mechanism that temporarily releases a supplier from its strict contractual obligations due to extreme events completely outside its operational control.

KPC confirmed that with the successful stabilization of regional transit corridors, these protective legal measures are no longer necessary, allowing the Gulf state to fully resume its standard international delivery guarantees.

Infrastructure repaired

Coinciding with the legal normalization of its supply contracts, Kuwait has laid out an accelerated timeline to flood global markets with crude oil.

KPC announced that it intends to increase its total oil production to two million barrels per day within just one week.

This rapid ramp-up is timed to take full advantage of the reopening of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, enabling international commercial shipping fleets to load and distribute energy cargoes without further disruption.

The corporation revealed that the ambitious timeline was made possible by the rapid deployment of technical teams to battered extraction zones.

KPC verified that comprehensive repair works targeting the severe physical damage inflicted upon the nation's core oil infrastructure during the conflict have been successfully completed.

"The completion of the repair works on the damaged oil infrastructure will directly accelerate our return to previous production benchmarks," KPC stated in its official briefing, noting that the finalized repairs significantly boost the sector's localized capacity to satisfy immediate global demand.

Markets react to return of Gulf supply

The announcement comes at a highly sensitive time for international energy markets, which have spent months navigating intense price volatility, reduced tanker access, and crippling supply bottlenecks.

The sudden return of regular transit through the Strait of Hormuz—the world's most critical maritime chokepoint—has shifted market dynamics overnight, as global buyers prepare for a steady influx of stable commercial supplies.

With Kuwaiti infrastructure now fully operational and shipping lanes clear of tactical threats, international logistics firms have already begun rerouting heavy supertankers back into the Persian Gulf.

Financial analysts note that Kuwait’s rapid shift from protective legal restrictions to a massive two-million-barrel weekly output goal provides concrete evidence that the broader regional peace framework is translating directly into global economic normalization.

In the clearest sign yet of a rapid easing of global energy supply bottlenecks, US Vice President JD Vance announced that an unprecedented 12.5 million barrels of oil safely transited the strategic Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday night.

The immense flow of commercial crude oil marks a critical turning point for international maritime commerce. According to Vice President Vance, the volume recorded over the last 24 hours represents the single highest transit rate achieved since the maritime blockade and broader regional conflict first choked off the Persian Gulf chokepoint.

The logistical breakthrough follows the formal, electronic signing of a war-ending memorandum of understanding (MOU) by the presidents of both the United States and Iran. The sudden return of international shipping fleets to the waterway indicates that commercial transport firms are moving swiftly to capitalize on the newly established peace framework.

Iranian forces hold fire

Crucially, the massive logistical operation was executed without a single security incident or tactical disruption. Vice President Vance verified that a total cessation of naval hostilities was observed along the volatile shipping corridor, confirming that Iranian forces did not fire upon or interfere with any commercial vessels throughout the entire night.

The peaceful passage stands in stark contrast to the preceding months of intense maritime friction, which were defined by active exchanges of fire, asset seizures, and an economically punishing naval blockade. The complete absence of military friction directly mirrors state statements from the Iranian Foreign Ministry, which announced that its reciprocal security commitments to normalize traffic and remove tactical obstacles in the Strait of Hormuz went into full effect the moment the digital treaty was validated.

With the 12.5 million barrel surge providing immediate stability to global energy markets, American and Iranian diplomatic teams are currently finalizing local arrangements to transition into the next phase of the peace track. The successful overnight operation provides a highly stable backdrop as both nations prepare to commence a formal, comprehensive 60-day negotiation cycle in Switzerland this coming Friday.

The departure of Iran's diplomatic negotiating team to Switzerland remains unconfirmed ahead of scheduled global talks, according to an informed source speaking to Iran's semi-official Tasnim News Agency.

Despite international expectations surrounding tomorrow's planned technical sessions in Europe, the insider revealed that Tehran has not yet locked in its travel itinerary.

"Up to this moment, nothing has been finalized regarding the travel of the Iranian delegation to Geneva," the source stated, noting that internal bureaucratic reviews and strategic consultations are still actively underway.

The fluid status of the delegation's itinerary comes at a critical juncture, directly following the electronic execution of a bilateral memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran.

The source emphasized that the uncertainty will be resolved shortly, with a definitive decision expected to emerge before the end of the day.

"This matter will be determined within the coming hours as to whether the Iranian delegation will be present in Geneva tomorrow or not," the source added.

Tasnim reported that if the state consultations yield an affirmative decision, official channels will immediately release a detailed briefing outlining the delegation's specific agenda, technical roster, and scheduled arrival details in Switzerland.

• Trump says he wants to see the full field before deciding.
• Describes ties with Netanyahu as good but urges him to be more rational.
• Invites Netanyahu to meet amid regional tensions.

US President Donald Trump has opened the door to a major political endorsement for Benjamin Netanyahu in 'Israel’s' upcoming fall elections, while simultaneously issuing a blunt critique of the Prime Minister's recent decision-making.

Speaking to 'Israel's' Kan public broadcaster, Trump stated that it is "very likely" he will publicly back Netanyahu's reelection bid.

However, the President stopped short of an absolute guarantee, signaling that his ultimate support remains conditional on the final layout of the political field.

"Very likely I'll support Netanyahu in the elections, but I need to see who's running," Trump told reporters, acknowledging the shifting political dynamics ahead of the Knesset vote.

The conditional backing comes at a highly sensitive time for the bilateral alliance, following notable behind-the-scenes friction regarding ceasefire arrangements in Lebanon and ongoing operations against Iran.

While Trump reaffirmed the baseline strength of their personal connection, he did not hold back on urging the 'Israeli' Prime Minister to alter his current strategic approach.

"I have a good relationship with Bibi, but he needs to be more rational," President Trump stated. "I'm willing to meet with him."

The comments highlight the complex, transactional relationship between the two leaders during a critical transition period for Middle Eastern security.

Political analysts note that by calling on Netanyahu to display greater rationality while offering a high-profile meeting, Trump is attempting to maintain leverage over the wartime cabinet as the United States finalizes a broader regional peace framework.

• Trump touts major geopolitical and economic successes.
• Highlights strong markets, record jobs, and lower prices.
• Declares America stronger, safer, and more respected worldwide.

US President Donald Trump took to his Truth Social platform to issue a triumphant all-caps victory lap, taking full credit for a sweeping stabilization of both global energy markets and the domestic American economy.

The statement comes as a historic, war-ending maritime memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran goes into full effect.

In his post, Trump directly tied the newly minted diplomatic pact to immediate relief for international markets, declaring that "OIL IS FLOWING" following his executive directive to lift the US naval blockade and permanently reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping.

The President further sought to ease global security anxieties by offering an absolute guarantee regarding Tehran’s atomic ambitions, asserting that "IRAN CAN NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON" and explicitly promising that "THE WORLD WILL BE SAFE!"

Turning his focus to the home front, Trump used the platform to champion a series of landmark domestic achievements.

He highlighted a surging Wall Street, stating that "THE STOCK MARKETS ARE ROARING" and pointing to labor metrics to claim that American "JOBS ARE AT RECORDS."

Addressing persistent public concerns over inflation, the President noted that "PRICES ARE DROPPING," framing the economic shift as a massive win for consumer "AFFORDABILITY!"

The brief, highly animated declaration serves as a definitive encapsulation of the administration's "America First" doctrine at a moment of profound international realignment.

Trump concluded his statement by painting a picture of an unparalleled era of American dominance and global standing, declaring that the country is "STRONG, SAFE, AND RESPECTED LIKE NEVER BEFORE," before signing off with a characteristically direct message to the public: “YOU’RE WELCOME!”

Iran’s president touted his country’s agreement with the US as a “historic document” Thursday, calling it a “message from a strong Iran.”

“This is a historic document and a message from a strong Iran: peace will be achieved through mutual respect,” Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian said on X after signing the memorandum of understanding.

“The Islamic Republic of Iran remains committed to global peace, while preserving its dignity and independence, and to progress and regional cooperation.”

The 14-point document lays out terms for an extended ceasefire and continued peace talks between Iran and the US. It promises Iran a lot of money – by lifting sanctions so Iran can sell its oil to the world, but also potentially giving Iran access to billions in frozen assets and $300 billion in financing.

But at less than 800 words in English, it leaves a lot of details for later, including the touchy subject of Iran’s nuclear program.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said he held a phone call with Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah to discuss the US-Iran memorandum of understanding and recent regional developments.

In a post on Telegram, Araghchi said Iran hopes the agreement will contribute to restoring peace and stability across the region.

Araghchi stressed the importance of continued engagement with Gulf nations, saying dialogue is needed to resolve existing ambiguities and strengthen regional cooperation.

Iranian state television has reported that ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz are still required to coordinate with the naval forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

According to the report, maritime transit through the strategic waterway continues to be subject to coordination with the IRGC Navy, which plays a key role in security operations in the area.

Former Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has welcomed the signing of the memorandum of understanding between Iran and the United States, describing it as a source of national pride for Iranians.

In a statement posted on X, Rouhani said that since the agreement was reached, “every Iranian in every corner of the world takes pride in their Iranian identity.”

He praised Iran’s leaders for managing national unity with “firmness, wisdom, and prudence” and said the country’s armed forces had left “the enemy with the bitter regret of military defeat in their hearts.”

Rouhani warned that the gains achieved through the initial agreement must be protected, urging Iranians to remain alert against what he described as potential hostile actions and breaches of commitments.

He also said Iran’s neighboring countries could benefit from greater regional security and shared development by participating in and helping guarantee the agreement.

Rouhani, who served as Iran’s president from 2013 to 2021 and oversaw the 2015 nuclear agreement with world powers, is widely regarded as a moderate figure within Iran’s political establishment.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said the memorandum of understanding reached with the United States is a historic document that sends a message that peace can be achieved through mutual respect.

Pezeshkian said the agreement reflects Iran’s commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue while safeguarding its national interests.

Emphasis on cooperation and sovereignty
The Iranian president stressed that Tehran remains committed to global peace and strengthening regional cooperation, while maintaining its dignity and independence.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has said the United States would be prepared to resume military action and reimpose a blockade if Iran fails to comply with commitments under the US-Iran agreement.

Speaking in Brussels after a meeting of NATO defense ministers, Hegseth said President Donald Trump has made clear that Washington will act if Tehran does not adhere to the terms of the deal.

“The president has pointed out that we will be prepared to recommence if underneath the timeline of these talks Iran does not do what it says it’s going to do,” he said.

He added: “If Iran doesn’t comply then we’re more than able to reimpose an ironclad blockade.”

US President Donald Trump has pushed back against criticism that he has not taken a sufficiently hard line on Iran, arguing that economic indicators show his approach is delivering results.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump pointed to record highs in the stock market and falling oil prices as evidence of success.

“These fools, who think I haven’t been tough enough on Iran, when the Stock Market Just Hit A RECORD HIGH, and Oil prices are ‘tumbling’ down, are either jealous, bad people, or stupid,” he wrote.