2026 U.S.-Iran Agreement Draft

2026 United States-Iran Accord (US-Iran Peace Agreement) is a formal agreement reached between the United States of America (USA) and the Islamic Republic of Iran to end a war lasting over 100 days and to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The agreement was announced by US President Donald Trump on 14 June 2026 and confirmed by Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi.

The accord envisages the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the lifting of the US naval blockade on Iranian ports, the immediate and permanent cessation of all military operations on all fronts including Lebanon, and the resumption of negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear program. The official signing ceremony is scheduled to take place on 19 June 2026 in Switzerland.

It has been stated that the accord does not constitute a final agreement on nuclear issues but rather serves as a framework to extend the ceasefire and establish a 60-day negotiation period. Iran has indicated that negotiations on a final agreement will only commence after the United States fulfills all its commitments under the accord.

The conclusion of the agreement was first announced by Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, who mediated indirect talks between Tehran and Washington. In a social media post, Sharif said, “We are pleased to announce that a peace agreement has been reached between the United States and Iran following intensive negotiations.”

Sharif confirmed that both sides had declared the immediate and permanent cessation of all military operations on all fronts including Lebanon and announced that the official signing ceremony would be held on 19 June in Switzerland.

US President Donald Trump subsequently confirmed the completion of the agreement in a post on Truth Social. In his statement, Trump said, “Congratulations to everyone. I fully endorse the free and immediate opening of the Strait of Hormuz and the immediate lifting of the US Navy blockade. Ships of the world, start your engines. Let the oil flow.”

In a second post, Trump emphasized that the agreement would bring peace and security to the region, stating, “Many presidents have tried to make peace with Iran and all failed before me. Regional leaders have finally found a president who can help them achieve real peace.” Trump also stated that with the signing of the agreement on 19 June, the Strait of Hormuz would reopen and oil would resume flowing for the region and the world following mine clearance.

Trump announced the agreement on his 80th birthday according to US time; a US official noted that Tehran had requested the announcement be made before midnight Iran time, which coincided with Trump’s birthday. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio congratulated Trump on the coincidence of the announcement with his birthday.

According to Iran’s Mehr News Agency, the draft agreement consists of 14 articles. It includes the immediate and permanent cessation of hostilities on all fronts including Lebanon, the complete lifting of the naval blockade within 30 days, a commitment by the United States to withdraw its forces from around Iran, and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

The draft also provides for the suspension of sanctions on oil sales, the achievement of a final agreement on nuclear issues within 60 days after the signing of the accord, and the release of $24 billion in frozen Iranian assets during the 60-day negotiation period. Mehr reported that final negotiations would not begin until half of Iran’s frozen assets were released and restrictions affecting the Strait of Hormuz were lifted. The same source stated that discussions regarding Iran’s missile program and its support for resistance groups had been removed from the negotiation agenda. Al Jazeera noted that it could not independently verify the details reported by Mehr.

According to Axios, the agreement requires the United States and Iran to negotiate within the 60-day period on Iran’s uranium enrichment and the disposal of highly enriched uranium. It is noted that the United States will discuss the easing of sanctions and the release of frozen Iranian funds, with these steps contingent upon Tehran’s compliance.

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Gharibabadi also noted that within the 60-day period following the signing of the agreement, negotiations would cover sanctions, the nuclear program, and an economic development mechanism. Gharibabadi stated that all of Iran’s key positions were included in the text and that the agreement would be made public before the signing ceremony on 19 June. According to Al Jazeera, based on unverified details shared by international parties, the agreement appears to largely restore the pre-war status quo.

In his initial announcement on 14 June 2026, Trump affirmed the free (toll-free) reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the lifting of the US naval blockade. In a subsequent statement on the same day, he stated that the reopening of this waterway, through which approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil passes, is contingent upon the agreement to be signed on 19 June and will be carried out “for mine clearance purposes”.

It was noted that Sharif made no specific reference to the strait in his initial announcement. Iran’s Mehr News Agency reported that the accord envisages the reopening of the strait within 30 days “under Iranian regulations.” The United States is reported to consider any fee-based regulation of shipping in the strait unacceptable.

It is assessed that the reopening of the strait will not occur immediately; the processes of mine clearance, infrastructure repair, and security establishment may take time before shipping volumes return to pre-war levels.

It has been noted that the agreement does not resolve the future of Iran’s nuclear program. Trump reiterated his statement that “Iran will never acquire nuclear weapons”; Pakistani officials confirmed that nuclear talks would last 60 days. Trump stated that if Tehran fails to reach a nuclear agreement, the United States could resume military operations.^.

The group known as E4, comprising the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Italy, stated in a joint declaration that it is prepared to lift relevant sanctions in return for clear and verifiable steps by Iran regarding its nuclear program.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, in a social media post, said, “We view the agreement reached between the United States and Iran as a significant development toward establishing peace and calm in our region and welcome it with satisfaction.”

Erdoğan emphasized the need to avoid inflammatory rhetoric, provocations, and actions that could escalate tensions before the signing and to remain vigilant against possible sabotage. He thanked Pakistan for its mediation efforts and expressed appreciation for the diplomatic support provided by Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, in a social media post, said, “We welcome the agreement reached to end the war between the United States and Iran. This agreement constitutes an important milestone on the path toward establishing lasting peace and stability in the region.”

Fidan assessed that it is of great importance for all relevant countries to demonstrate prudent and responsible conduct to prevent attempts to sabotage the agreement and to preserve regional peace and security. He noted that Türkiye, under the leadership of President Erdoğan, has supported the process from its inception.

Presidential Communications Director Burhanettin Duran also stated in his post that they welcomed the understanding reached between the United States and Iran and expressed hope that the agreement would contribute to lasting peace.

The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its satisfaction at the agreement reached between the United States and Iran on a framework to address unresolved issues between the two countries. The statement emphasized that the accord, particularly in guaranteeing freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, represents an important step toward strengthening lasting peace and supporting regional and global economic growth. Qatar stated that the agreement would create new opportunities for cooperation, development, and prosperity in the region and serve the shared interests of its people.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed his satisfaction at the agreement reached by the United States and Iran on an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and a framework for further negotiations. The statement expressed deep appreciation for the constructive role played by Pakistan, Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and other regional countries in supporting the negotiations.^[73]

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, in a written statement, said, “I welcome the agreement reached today between the United States and Iran. This is a very important step toward ending the war, securing regional stability, and reopening the Strait of Hormuz.”

Starmer congratulated mediators such as Pakistan and Oman and other parties contributing to the resolution. He stated that the United Kingdom is ready to provide full support for technical talks and is leading efforts with France to establish an international security force for the transition. Starmer also emphasized the importance of Iran fully implementing its commitments regarding its nuclear program and reiterated that Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons.

French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the agreement in a social media post and called for its rapid and complete implementation by all parties. Macron stated that the agreement must enable the immediate and unconditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and confirmed that the international mission established with the United Kingdom is prepared to support this process. Macron also noted that France will continue to fully support the Lebanese authorities in their efforts to reestablish state sovereignty.

US Vice President JD Vance said the ceasefire agreement could launch a “new era” in the Middle East and praised Trump for the accord. Vance stated that it can be confidently said that Iran will never acquire nuclear weapons, expressed hope for lower energy prices, and confirmed his plan to attend the signing ceremony in Switzerland next week.

US Permanent Representative to the UN Mike Waltz, when asked for details on the potential accord, stated that further details would be reserved for future negotiations. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said he would “closely monitor” the upcoming nuclear negotiations.

Iran’s Mehr News Agency published a text on 15 June 2026, describing it as details of a 14-point draft agreement between Tehran and Washington. It was stated that the draft has not been independently verified and neither Iranian nor U.S. officials have confirmed its content publicly.

According to Mehr’s claims, the draft begins with the immediate and permanent cessation of all military operations across all fronts, including Lebanon, and includes a U.S. commitment to refrain from interfering in Iran’s internal affairs and to respect the sovereignty of the Islamic Republic. The same claims state that Washington will commit to lifting the naval blockade within 30 days, withdrawing its forces from around Iran, and allowing the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz under “Iranian regulations.”

Mehr claims that the draft provides for the release of $24 billion in frozen Iranian assets over a 60-day negotiation period, with half of these funds to be made available before negotiations begin. According to the agency, future negotiations will be limited solely to the fate of enriched uranium, enrichment activities, sanctions relief, and economic reconstruction; Iran’s missile program and its support for allied armed groups will be excluded from the agenda.

^{Destroyed and damaged buildings in Lebanon, 15 June 2026 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Mehr’s claims state that the draft envisages the suspension of sanctions on Iranian oil, petrochemical products, and related exports, and grants Tehran full access to these revenues; it also demands that the United States and its allies provide a reconstruction plan worth at least $300 billion for Iran.

The parties will then enter a 60-day negotiation period aimed at reaching a final agreement that includes the removal of restrictions on Iran’s nuclear program and U.S. primary and secondary sanctions imposed by the United Nations Security Council and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). It is claimed that under this framework Iran reaffirms its commitment under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons not to acquire nuclear weapons, and that the United States will refrain from deploying additional forces to the region or imposing new sanctions during the negotiation period.

Mehr News, citing Muhammedi, strategic advisor to the head of Iran’s negotiation delegation, reported that the final decision on the agreement is under discussion in Iran and relayed additional claims based on an audio recording. According to Muhammedi, Iran provides security, navigation and safety services in the Strait of Hormuz and collects fees for them; it is claimed that this right to collect fees belongs exclusively to Iran and Oman and will remain unchanged regardless of any agreement.

According to Muhammedi’s claims, the first article of the draft requires the cessation of war across all fronts, including Iran and Lebanon, and a commitment by the other side not to initiate new wars or military operations. Under these claims, the United States will give this commitment on its own behalf and on behalf of Israel; Muhammedi described this as the first time in history Iran has forced the United States to guarantee for Israel.

^{Daily life in Tehran, 15 June 2026 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Muhammedi asserted that Iran’s commitments are reciprocal and that if the other side fails to fulfill its obligations, Iran will not fulfill its own; the strait will remain closed, negotiations will not proceed to the next stage, and war may be resumed if necessary. According to the same claims, the lifting of the naval blockade will begin immediately upon signing the agreement and maritime traffic will return to pre-blockade levels within 30 days. Muhammedi also claimed that the proposed $300 billion fund is referred to in the text as “reconstruction,” meaning compensation for war-related damages.

According to Muhammedi’s claims, the United States has for the first time committed in the final agreement to lift primary sanctions, but comprehensive sanctions relief will not occur until the second phase of negotiations is reached. According to the same claims, the other side’s demands regarding the nuclear program are limited exclusively to highly enriched material, and the dilution method is under discussion; it is claimed that the diluted material will remain within the country and can be quickly re-enriched to higher levels if needed. Muhammedi asserted that the withdrawal of U.S. forces from regions around Iran within 30 days and the release of half of the frozen assets at the outset of implementation are foreseen.

It has been noted that the content published by Mehr has not been verified and may change as the parties move toward formal negotiations.

U.S. President Donald Trump on 15 June, during a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in France, where he was attending the G7 Leaders Summit, said in reference to the preliminary agreement: “I am very happy to say that the agreement has been signed; the agreement is fully signed.”

A senior U.S. official, in a teleconference, announced that the draft agreement had been electronically signed on behalf of the United States by President Trump and Vice President JD Vance, and on Iran’s side by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf. U.S. officials speaking to Reuters and AFP confirmed that the signature was made by these three individuals. Qalibaf, in a social media post, wrote that Iran has taken “a major step toward historic victory” following its “historic resistance” against Israel and the United States.

The U.S. official stated that the agreement sets the framework for future negotiations and that Iran will be accepted into the global economy to the extent it cooperates on its nuclear programs, verifying it does not produce nuclear weapons, and ceasing financial support for radicalism and terrorism in the region. The official noted that details of the agreement will be made public within 24 to 48 hours.

Vice President Vance said the agreement text is approximately “one and a half pages” long and has the nature of a “very general” document, with details to be determined in future technical negotiations. According to Vance, the first paragraph of the document refers to Iran’s commitment to “regional peace and stability”, which includes halting funding for “terrorist organizations”; the most important element, he said, is Iran’s verifiable commitment not to develop nuclear weapons.

JD Vance on the same day told NBC News that nuclear inspectors (IAEA) will return to Iran “without question” and that one of the core elements of the agreement is the IAEA and the United States assisting in the destruction of Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched material.

A senior Iranian official told Reuters that the United States has agreed to release $25 billion from Iran’s frozen assets and suspend oil sanctions for a specified period. Vance rejected this, saying: “Not a single dollar of sanctions relief or asset unfreezing has come from the United States or our Gulf allies.”

Trump dismissed reports that the United States paid Iran $300 million as “fake news.” In a Truth Social post, he said: “Iran has never agreed not to acquire a nuclear weapon! Also, the report that the United States paid Iran $300 million is a fake story fabricated by Democrats.” It is unclear whether Trump’s reference to the “$300 million” figure contradicts the much higher “$300 billion” amount cited by other officials and international media.

Vance clarified that the proposed $300 billion fund will be financed not by U.S. taxpayers but by regional allies, stating: “Not a single cent of this money comes from the United States.” According to Vance, Gulf Arab countries will only consider investing if Tehran makes its economy “investment-ready” and begins to “act like a normal country”.

A senior U.S. official confirmed that the multi-billion-dollar fund is part of the diplomatic negotiationsbut that all financial progress will be strictly “performance-based”. Financial Times reported that the establishment of the fund is contingent on a final agreement including a 60-day extension of the ceasefire and the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and that the capital is likely to be managed through a framework directed at private companies engaged with Iran’s markets, rather than direct intergovernmental aid.

According to Anadolu Ajansı, a senior U.S. official suggested that if Iran demonstrates compliance with its commitments, the $300 billion in frozen assets will be gradually released; the process is in a “confidence-building phase” and will proceed on a performance-based basis. The official stated that Gulf countries will also act in coordination with Washington on these funds.

Trump announced that after the agreement he issued orders for the immediate lifting of the U.S. naval blockade on Iranian ports and posted on social media: “Most oil-laden ships have begun to depart from the Strait of Hormuz. They are using the fully safe and secure southern ‘highway.’ Other routes are also available.”

According to Iranian media, after the U.S. lifted its blockade, at least three Iranian oil tankers and two cargo ships passed through the strait. Semi-official Fars News Agency reported that the first Iranian vessels passed through the blockade zone without incident; one Iranian VLCC tanker and a ship carrying live animals are heading to Iranian ports, while an oil tanker is proceeding toward export terminals via the Sea of Oman.

U.S. official stated that with the signing of the agreement, the Strait of Hormuz will open immediately to maritime traffic, but that returning to normal maritime flow will not be immediately possible within a few weeks; however, traffic is expected to increase daily. Trump reiterated in a statement to journalists in Geneva that the strait will be fully open by Friday, 19 June, and said most of the mines in the region will be rendered ineffective. Vance stated that no fees will be charged for passage through the strait during the 60-day period.

^{Daily life in Tehran, 15 June 2026 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Trump told The New York Times that if Iran fails to reach a final nuclear agreement with the United States, he will resume military strikes against Tehran. Trump said he has negotiated with Iran on suspending uranium enrichment activities for 20 years but would accept a 15-year period; he stated Iran’s capacity will be limited to low-level enrichment insufficient for military purposes. Trump argued that the new agreement is superior to the 2015 deal signed during the presidency of former President Barack Obama.

Vance said in an interview with CNBC that Washington has “all the cards” in negotiations with Iran; he identified the two core elements of the agreement as the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and Iran’s long-term, verifiable commitment never to develop nuclear weapons. Vance stated that if Tehran fulfills its obligations, economic sanctions and other restrictions can be eased.

Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Ismail Bekayi said that according to the draft agreement, the United States is obligated to lift all primary and secondary sanctions and that the removal of United Nations Security Council sanctions and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) decisions is also envisaged. Bekayi stated that these issues, along with nuclear matters, will be negotiated starting the day after the signing and will be concluded within 60 days.

Bekayi said the draft agreement envisages the immediate lifting of restrictions on the sale of oil, oil derivatives, and petrochemical products upon signing on Friday; he identified the release of frozen assets and compensation for war damages as the two main pillars of the agreement. Despite the framework, Bekayi said Iran maintains “deep mistrust” toward the United States and emphasized that the cessation of war in Lebanon is an inseparable part of the agreement.

Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and Italy, in a joint statement shortly after the agreement’s announcement, reiterated their readiness to lift relevant sanctions if Iran takes clear and verifiable steps regarding its nuclear program; they emphasized the importance of the unconditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The statement noted that a fully defensive mission, consistent with constitutional requirements, could be launched to guarantee commercial maritime traffic and conduct mine-clearing operations.

On 15 June, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that the Iran-U.S. draft agreement will be signed on Friday, 19 June; he said that if all provisions are properly implemented, the agreement could be regarded as a “proud document” for the country. Pezeshkian noted that the vast majority of members of the Iranian Supreme National Security Council support the draft agreement, but that the final agreement has not yet been finalized.

On the same day, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the Washington administration is responsible for implementing the agreement and insisted that Israel’s attacks on Lebanon must be fully halted; he thanked Iraq and Egypt for their ceasefire efforts. Araghchi said a meeting between the heads of negotiation teams could take place in Switzerland on Friday and that the first round of negotiations will begin after formal signatures are exchanged.

Spokesperson for the Iranian Armed Forces, Brigadier General Mohammad Ekrimiya said: “We will support any agreement that serves the interests of the Iranian people.” He warned that if the adversary fails to fulfill its commitments, the military situation in the region will rapidly revert to its pre-agreement state.

Garibabadi reported that Qatari mediators conducted approximately 14 to 15 hours of talks in Tehran to reach the framework agreement. Iran’s top military command, the Hatem al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, claimed that Iran and its allies have left the United States and Israel with no option but to “accept defeat and surrender”. The Iranian Foreign Ministry, however, stated that Tehran maintains “deep mistrust” toward the United States and that the agreement is merely “a step aimed at reducing tensions”.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in his first statement on the agreement, said he and Trump have “never always agreed”; he stated that Israeli forces will continue to occupy southern Lebanon as long as deemed necessary. Later in a press conference, Netanyahu claimed he has not set the overthrow of the Tehran regime as a war objective; he declared that Israel will not withdraw from the territories it occupies in southern Lebanon despite the U.S.-Iran agreement, and that under his premiership, Iran will not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons with or without an agreement; he also confirmed he will run again in upcoming elections.

^{Destroyed and damaged buildings in Lebanon, 15 June 2026 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Reactions to the agreement have intensified within Israel. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said: “Trump’s agreement does not bind us. Israel is not a colony (subject) of the United States.” He argued that nothing less than the complete dismantling of Hezbollah is acceptable. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich labeled the agreement “bad”; Defense Minister Yisrael Katz announced that the Israeli military will remain in its occupied territories in southern Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza for an indefinite period.

U.S. officials stated that Lebanon is included in the ceasefire framework but that Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanese territory is not a condition of the agreement; they affirmed Israel’s right to legitimate self-defense.

Despite the ceasefire and agreement, Israeli forces continued attacks on southern Lebanon. Despite the ceasefire, which entered into force on 17 April and was extended for 45 days until 17 May, attacks targeted the towns of Kefertebnit and Upper Nabatieh with air and artillery fire; Press TV correspondent journalist Hadi Hoteit was injured in an artillery attack, and the driver of a vehicle targeted in an UAV strike near Kefr Tebnit in Nabatieh was killed. Israeli artillery units later targeted the towns of Reyhan, Secid, and Mahmudiye.

Hezbollah has continued reciprocal fire in southern Lebanon; both sides have claimed responsibility for the attacks. Israel Defense Forces confirmed that four people were killed in its operations targeting “terrorists.”

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun welcomed the agreement, noting it includes elements aimed at halting military activity in the region and that this includes Lebanon. Hezbollah also welcomed the agreement, stating that the gains achieved serve as a starting point for Israel’s withdrawal from occupied territories, the release of prisoners, the return of displaced persons, and reconstruction.

Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri and Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi discussed the agreement’s clauses in a phone call; Araghchi emphasized that the clause on ending the war in Lebanon must be fully implemented from the day the agreement enters into force and throughout the 60-day negotiation period, and that the parties guaranteeing the agreement with the United States are responsible for ensuring compliance.

A senior U.S. official stated that following the signing of the draft agreementon Friday, 19 June, the 60-day negotiation period will begin and the U.S. military will remain in the Middle East; however, if positive progress is made in negotiations, the military presence in the region will begin to be reduced. According to the statement, approximately 50,000 American troops, three aircraft carriers, and more than 200 aircraft are currently stationed in the region under the command of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM).

Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishak Dar welcomed the agreement and thanked international partners including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Türkiye, Egypt, and the United Nations; he stated they are awaiting the signature ceremony in Geneva on 19 June. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a speech to the National Assembly, emphasized that after three months and 16 days of intense efforts, a new era has begun; he thanked President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, as well as Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and other countries for their “leadership and cooperation.”

President Erdoğan stated that the war began on 28 February “due to Israel’s provocations” and that the agreement marks “a very important step”, allowing the region “on thorns” to take a “breath of relief.” He said attempts to pit brother against brother have failed and that efforts to ignite new conflicts among Turks, Arabs, Kurds, and Persians have ended in failure; he expressed hope that the agreement, achieved with Turkey’s contribution, will open the path to lasting peace and stability in the region.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the priority is the full implementation of the agreement by all parties; she emphasized the need for the Strait of Hormuz to reopen without any fees and warned that Europe must diversify its energy dependencies to reduce its reliance on the strait. Council of the European Union President António Costa said: “I am eagerly awaiting the end of this costly war and the full restoration of freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.” EU High Representative Kaja Kallas stated that the Union is ready to support nuclear negotiations.

The leaders of Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and Italy congratulated the agreement in a joint statement, reaffirming the importance of the immediate and unconditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and reiterating that Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz demanded the agreement be implemented with determination and stressed that it must remain valid in Lebanon as well.

French President Emmanuel Macron said that as G7 nations, they will do everything necessary to implement the agreement and ensure peaceful navigation through the Strait of Hormuz; he noted that around 20 countries have contributed to the temporary naval mission led by the United Kingdom and that the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle and its group could be deployed to secure the strait within days if needed. Macron argued that Iran’s enriched uranium must either be removed to a third country or diluted and placed under IAEA oversight.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez assessed the agreement as “evidence that war has failed”, noting it has caused over 7,400 deaths, most of them civilians, and widespread destruction.

Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Kuwait announced their welcome of the agreement; Saudi Arabia and Jordan emphasized the importance of restoring the state of freedom of navigation and security in the Strait of Hormuz to its condition before 28 February. The Arab League, Gulf Cooperation Council, Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Jordan, and Palestine also welcomed the agreement.

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian welcomed the agreement’s text and expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s mediation efforts. He also stated that Armenia, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, India, Bangladesh, Canada, Iraq, South Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Slovenia have welcomed the agreement.

^{Daily life in Tehran, 15 June 2026 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

U.S. Senators requested more information on the agreement from the White House. Senate Republican Leader John Thune said he lacks sufficient information on the agreement; Senator Thom Tillis asked: “If this is a secret agreement, how can I take it seriously?”

Senator John Kennedy said it is difficult to assess without seeing the final document; Senator Lindsey Graham noted he requested that JD Vance, whom he called the “architect” of the agreement, present the matter to officials. Democratic Senator Tim Kaine welcomed the end of the war but said he wants to hear more details.

On 17 June 2026, a senior U.S. official, during a teleconference with members of the press, disclosed for the first time the contents of the 14-point agreement text reached between the United States and Iran. The official stated that the agreement was not a final deal but rather a framework document granting the parties up to 60 days for negotiations.

The U.S. official later read aloud the full text of the 14-point agreement text, which consists of the following provisions:

1- The United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran sign this agreement to immediately and permanently cease all military operations on all fronts including Lebanon, commit to refraining from initiating any war or military operation against each other, avoid the use or threat of force against each other, and guarantee Lebanon's territorial integrity and sovereignty. The final agreement will permanently end all hostilities on all fronts including Lebanon and reaffirm the other provisions of this paragraph.

2- The United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran commit to respecting each other's sovereignty and territorial integrity and to non-interference in each other's internal affairs.

3- The United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran commit to negotiating and concluding a final agreement within no more than 60 days, a period that may be extended by mutual consent.

4- Immediately after the signing of this agreement, the United States will begin lifting the naval blockade and all forms of obstruction or disruption against the Islamic Republic of Iran and will fully terminate the naval blockade within 30 days. During this period, maritime traffic will be proportionate to the pre-war volume reestablished by the Islamic Republic of Iran. The United States also commits to withdrawing its forces near the borders of the Islamic Republic of Iran within 30 days after the signing of the final agreement.

5- Following the signing of this agreement, the Islamic Republic of Iran will make every effort to implement necessary arrangements to allow commercial vessels to transit freely and safely between the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, and vice versa, for a period of 60 days. Commercial shipping will commence immediately, and these arrangements will enter into force within 30 days, taking into account the removal of technical and military obstacles and the necessity of mine clearance. The Islamic Republic of Iran will engage in dialogue with the Sultanate of Oman to determine future management and maritime services in the Strait of Hormuz, in consultation with other Persian Gulf coastal states, within the framework of applicable international law and the sovereignty rights of the Strait's coastal states.

6- The United States commits, together with its regional partners, to preparing a definitive and mutually agreed plan worth at least 300 billion U.S. dollars to support the reconstruction and economic development of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The mechanism for implementing this plan will be finalized as part of the final agreement to be signed within 60 days. All necessary licenses, exemptions and authorizations for related financial transactions will be issued by the United States.

7- The United States commits, as part of the final agreement, to lifting United Nations Security Council resolutions, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors resolutions, and all unilateral U.S. sanctions including primary and secondary sanctions, according to a mutually agreed schedule. The Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States acknowledge the critical importance of lifting these sanctions and express their intention to address these issues promptly in negotiations to achieve mutual agreement.

8- The Islamic Republic of Iran reaffirms that it will not acquire or develop nuclear weapons. The United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran have agreed to resolve the issue of enriched material stockpiles through the minimum necessary method of on-site dilution under IAEA supervision, in accordance with a mutually agreed mechanism to be established as part of the final agreement. The parties also agree to negotiate in the final agreement a satisfactory framework addressing enrichment and other mutually agreed nuclear issues related to Iran's needs. The final agreement will reaffirm the provisions of this paragraph, and the Islamic Republic of Iran will acknowledge the vital importance of these nuclear matters. The parties express their intention to address these issues promptly in negotiations to achieve mutual agreement.

9- Until the final agreement is signed, the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran agree to maintain the current status quo. The Islamic Republic of Iran will preserve the current state of its nuclear program, and the United States will not impose any new sanctions or deploy additional military forces in the region.

10- Immediately after the signing of this agreement and until the lifting of sanctions, the United States commits to granting exemptions from the U.S. Department of the Treasury for the export of Iranian crude oil, petroleum products and derivatives, as well as for banking operations, insurance, transportation and all other related services.

11- Upon the entry into force of this agreement, the United States commits to fully releasing frozen or restricted funds and assets belonging to the Islamic Republic of Iran. The United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran will reach mutual agreement during negotiations on the procedures for the release of these funds. These funds, whether obtained directly from the original account or via transfer, will be made fully available for payments to beneficiaries designated by the Central Bank of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The United States commits to issuing all necessary licenses and authorizations accordingly.

12- The United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran have agreed to establish an implementation mechanism to monitor the successful execution of this agreement and compliance with the final agreement in the future.

13- Following the signing of this agreement, and subject to the commencement and continuation of implementation of paragraphs 1, 4, 5, 10 and 11, the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran will commence negotiations exclusively on the remaining paragraphs concerning the final agreement.

14- The final agreement will be endorsed by a binding United Nations Security Council resolution.

The Prime Minister’s Office of Pakistan, on June 18, shared images of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif signing the “Islamabad Accord Text” as mediator. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and U.S. President Donald Trump signed the accord text both physically and digitally.

^{Prime Minister Sharif signs the accord between the U.S. and Iran, June 18, 2026 – (Anadolu Agency)}

Pezeshkian shared the signed version of the accord text, signed by himself Trump and mediator Sharif, stating “This is a historic document and message from a strong Iran. Peace will take place under the shadow of mutual respect.” He emphasized that the text was the result of “national resistance political rationality and responsible diplomacy.”

Pakistan’s Prime Ministerial Spokesperson Mushref Zaidi announced that Sharif’s previously announced visit to Switzerland had been postponed because the accord text had been signed and entered into force electronically.

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on June 18 that, in accordance with the President’s directive, it had lifted the blockade on all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports and coastal areas; it also stated that U.S. military forces would remain in the region for a period to ensure Iran fully complies with the accord’s terms.

According to data from Kpler, a data analytics firm of Anadolu Agency, the tanker Awtad, carrying two million barrels of crude oil from Saudi Arabia, passed through the Strait of Hormuz toward South Korea. The tanker Viraj, loaded with approximately 27,500 barrels of petroleum products from Iran’s Imam Khomeini Port, was heading toward the United Arab Emirates. It is estimated that the tankers Shaden and Jaham also passed through the strait with their AIS signals turned off.

^{Signboard of the town of Bürgenstock in the canton of Nidwalden Switzerland, June 18, 2026 – (Anadolu Agency)}

According to the same source, before the war, an average of 130 vessels passed through the Strait of Hormuz daily; this number had fallen by more than 90 percent during the war. In the first 100 days of the conflict, approximately 1,000 commercial vessels (an average of 10 per day) transited the strait. It was noted that most vessels passing through the strait either followed the “Iran route” over Iranian territorial waters or had their AIS systems turned off.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance stated on the evening of Wednesday June 17 that 12.5 million barrels of oil had passed through the Strait of Hormuz, the highest volume since the war began.

According to Al Jazeera, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council announced that under the accord no fees would be charged for vessels transiting the strait for 60 days; however every tanker seeking passage must coordinate with Iran’s maritime authority, the “Basra Gulf Strait Administration.” The same source emphasized that Iran continues to maintain control over the strait and remains the regulating authority for transit.

On June 18, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, following a meeting of NATO Defense Ministers in Brussels, stated that the accord had been implemented through concrete actions demonstrating American power, that no trust relationship existed between the parties, and that every step was performance-based. Hegseth said “This is not the ‘trust and verify’ approach of the Obama-era agreements. Here there is no trust.” He added that the Department of Defense was prepared to resume operations if Iran did not abandon its nuclear weapons program.

In a social media post, Trump dismissed claims that the U.S. would pay Iran $30 billion as “fake news.” In a separate post, he stated “We expect a full ceasefire on all fronts including Lebanon Hezbollah and Israel.”

In an interview with Axios, Trump argued that after the war with Iran there was “no limit” to the use of force. When asked whether the accord meant an “unconditional surrender” from Tehran he replied “Probably it was indeed an unconditional surrender.”

Trump also stated that if Israel launched an independent attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities the U.S. could support it provided the operation was “limited in scale.”

Vance, during a White House press briefing, stated that the 60-day negotiation process had officially begun as of June 18 and that both countries had fulfilled their commitments under the accord text. He noted that Iran had not fired on ships in the Strait of Hormuz for two consecutive nights and that CENTCOM had permitted more than a dozen vessels to pass through the blockade. Vance also reported that a “gentlemen’s agreement” had been signed between the parties on June 17. He emphasized that Iran could access its $30 billion in frozen funds only if it fully complied with the accord’s terms and that the U.S. would not give Iran a single dollar from its own treasury.

Vance responded to criticism from certain Israeli cabinet ministers who condemned the accord and targeted Trump, saying “If I were in the Israeli cabinet I would not attack my last remaining powerful ally in the world.” He pointed out that two-thirds of Israel’s defense weapons over the past three months had been produced by American hands and financed by American taxpayers, adding “Israel’s problem is not Donald Trump.”

In a podcast interview with The New York Times Vance named Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich as targets of criticism, stating “You are a country of nine million people. You cannot solve every national security challenge by simply killing.” Vance argued that the accord would end Iran’s nuclear program and that this would be a major gain for Israel.

Vance stated that attacks between Israel and Hezbollah must also cease under the accord; he expected Hezbollah to refrain from attacking Israel and Israel to refrain from carrying out “crazy actions” in Lebanon.

Iran’s leader Mujtaba Khamenei confirmed his approval of the accord with the U.S. despite reservations, stating that future face-to-face negotiations “do not mean accepting the enemy’s views.”

Khamenei stated he approved the accord after President Pezeshkian, in his capacity as Chairman of the Supreme National Security Council, guaranteed that the rights of the Iranian people and the “resistance front” would be protected.

^{Iranian President Pezeshkian signs the accord text with the U.S. June 18 2026 – (Anadolu Agency)}

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot in a phone call that the U.S. was obligated to end the war on all fronts including Lebanon and stressed the need for determined international support from institutions including the UN Security Council. Iran’s Tasnim News Agency reported that the Iranian delegation’s participation in the planned talks in Switzerland had not yet been finalized.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a speech at the illegal settlement of Gush Etzion in the West Bank, declared that despite the accord’s entry into force Israel would not withdraw from the areas it occupies in southern Lebanon for as long as “security needs require.” He reiterated that Iran would not acquire nuclear weapons, saying “The struggle is not over.”

The accord was characterized by Israeli officials and politicians as a “bad deal.” Former Mossad Director of Intelligence and Operations Haim Tomer said the agreement was harmful to Israel and Gulf countries because it granted Iran and Oman the right to regulate shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Former head of Israel Defense Forces Intelligence Directorate (AMAN) Tamir Hayman stated that the accord “guaranteed the survival of the Tehran regime and provided it with generous economic support.” Likud Member of Knesset Avichay Buaron defended Israel’s refusal to abandon its occupation of southern Lebanon.

After four Israeli soldiers were killed in southern Lebanon, far-right ministers called for retaliation. Finance Minister Smotrich demanded “the opening of the gates of hell.” National Security Minister Ben-Gvir insisted “all of Lebanon must burn” and that “for every Israeli mother’s tear a thousand Lebanese mothers must weep.”

According to Israeli state television KAN Netanyahu attempted to reassure the U.S. administration that criticisms from cabinet members toward Trump did not reflect his own position.

Despite the accord Israeli attacks on Lebanon intensified. On the night of June 19 Israeli warplanes targeted numerous towns in the Nabatieh governorate. According to initial assessments by Lebanon’s Ministry of Health, 18 people were killed and 33 injured; among the dead were women and children.

The Israeli military announced that four of its soldiers were killed in clashes in southern Lebanon, identifying one of them as Lieutenant Dor Gedalia Ben Simhon (32) commander of the 52nd Battalion and 41st Brigade. The military claimed the attacks were carried out in response to Hezbollah’s violations of the ceasefire and that infrastructure in the Bekaa Valley had also been targeted.

Since the start of the war until June 19 Lebanon reported that civilian deaths had reached 3,912 and injuries had risen to approximately 12,000.

Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri stated “I confirm that Lebanon and Hezbollah will abide by the ceasefire provided Israel fully and comprehensively complies.” Hezbollah’s parliamentary group leader Muhammad Rad urged Lebanese officials to carefully read the accord text, noting that a two-month period had been granted for Israel’s full withdrawal, during which hostilities would cease and withdrawal would begin without the need for direct negotiations. Rad’s statement was made ahead of the fifth round of talks planned for June 22 in the U.S.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said the U.S. must pressure Israel to halt its attacks on Lebanon and stated that France would not approve the lifting of UN Security Council sanctions against Iran unless negotiations on its nuclear program met expectations.

Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan responded to claims that a Gulf-backed fund would be established for Iran’s reconstruction by saying “I have no information on this.” He emphasized that any economic cooperation with Iran required first rebuilding trust between the two countries. The sixth article of the accord text commits the U.S. together with regional partners to prepare a plan of at least $30 billion for Iran’s reconstruction; however the text contains no explicit statement that Gulf states would directly finance it.

The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed on June 18 that the first talks on implementing the accord were planned for June 19 in the town of Bürgenstock, Switzerland, involving mediators Pakistan and Qatar along with the U.S. and Iran.

^{Extensive security measures in the town of Bürgenstock in the canton of Nidwalden Switzerland June 18 2026 – (Anadolu Agency)}

Shortly after this announcement the White House stated that Vice President Vance’s trip to Switzerland had been postponed; technical talks had not yet been finalized and “the logistics of these negotiations have never been simple or predictable.”

The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed on June 18 that the U.S. Iran and mediators Pakistan and Qatar along with other relevant countries were scheduled to meet on June 19 in the Swiss canton of Nidwalden in the town of Bürgenstock for initial talks on implementing the accord.

Vice President JD Vance said during a White House press briefing on June 18 that technical talks were expected to begin over the weekend and that he planned to travel to Switzerland but that timing depended on the Iranian delegation’s travel arrangements. On the same day Iran’s Tasnim News Agency reported that the Iranian delegation’s travel to Switzerland had not yet been confirmed.

Shortly after these statements the White House announced late on the night of June 19 that Vance’s trip to Switzerland had been temporarily postponed; plans for technical talks had not yet been finalized and the U.S. delegation was ready to depart at the first opportunity. The statement reiterated that “the logistics of these negotiations have never been simple or predictable” and that information would be provided upon concrete updates with the expectation that technical talks would begin as soon as possible.

On June 19 the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs announced that the meeting in Bürgenstock would not take place as planned, confirming the cancellation of the meeting. It added that preparations for the talks were ongoing.

On 18 June, Iran’s newly established Persian Gulf Shipping Authority (PGSA) announced that vessels requesting transit will be granted permission to pass through the Hormuz Strait for a period of 60 days, in accordance with mutual agreements and official directives. According to the statement, applications must be submitted exclusively via “psga.ir” and “[email protected]”; transit requests must be submitted at least 48 hours before vessels reach the strait area. No fees will be collected from shipowners for security, safety and environmental services during the 60-day period, and the Iranian government will be responsible for covering these costs. The route and planned transit time for each vessel must be coordinated in advance.

The PGSA also stated that vessels must strictly adhere to a fixed route near Larak Island in the strait; otherwise responsibility will fall on the shipowners. The International Association of Independent Tanker Owners (INTERTANKO) reported that Iran has denied transit permissions to certain vessels during nighttime hours.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has lowered its threat level for the Hormuz Strait from the “significant” level it warned two days ago to the “moderate” level. It noted that the southern route near Oman remains open day and night but urged caution due to the risk of mines.

Bekayi announced on 19 June that the planned Iran-US talks in Bürgenstock have been postponed to “a later date”. Bekayi emphasized that implementation and continuation of Articles 1, 4, 5, 10 and 11 of the mutual understanding document are prerequisites for the talks to begin, and stressed that there is no urgency for the negotiations in Switzerland since the agreement had already been signed in advance.

According to an Al Jazeera correspondent, Vice President JD Vance’s aircraft was held in standby at Joint Base Andrews when his trip was abruptly postponed; Iranian representatives refused to travel to Geneva until Israel’s military operations in Lebanon ended. It is claimed that Vance chose to postpone rather than cancel his trip.

According to a US official, on 20 June, US special envoy Steve Witkoff traveled to Switzerland to conduct technical talks; it was expected that President Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner would also join the delegation. It was noted that Witkoff and Kushner were among those who led the negotiations that led to the original mutual understanding document. The talks are likely to be held again in Bürgenstock; the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed that preparations are ongoing.

Pakistan’s Interior Minister Muhsin Nakvi, who is mediating the talks, traveled to Tehran to meet with Interior Minister Iskender Mumeni and Foreign Minister Abbas Araki to monitor the progress of negotiations. Pakistan government sources indicated that technical-level talks between the US and Iran are expected to begin “within one to two days”.

Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Said Hatibzade, in an interview with Al Jazeera, stated that Tehran is ready for diplomatic progress with Washington but insisted that the US must ensure Israel complies with the agreement’s terms; he emphasized that the US must “demonstrate its ability to fulfill its commitments”.

Despite the agreement, Israel intensified its attacks on southern Lebanon. According to Lebanon’s Ministry of Health, at least 47 people were killed in Israeli attacks on 19 June.

Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah renewed their ceasefire on 19 June in the afternoon (local time around 16:00); however, the ceasefire was quickly violated. According to Lebanon’s official news agency, at least 12 more people were killed in Israeli attacks beginning in the early hours of 20 June; among the dead were four members of the same family in the village of Barish near Sour (mother, father and two children), one Lebanese soldier in the village of Kefr Reman, and three people in the village of Arab Salim.

The Lebanese Armed Forces stated that Israel’s attacks aim to “prevent the restoration of stability in the country” and reported that one of its soldiers was killed in the attacks. The Israeli military claimed the attacks followed Hezbollah’s launch of “more than 50 projectiles” toward Israeli forces in the south.

Israeli military spokesperson Effie Defrin stated that Israel will continue its operations in southern Lebanon, while US Ambassador Yechiel Leiter said Israel will abide by the ceasefire if Hezbollah does. Hezbollah MP Ibrahim al-Musawi declared, “As long as Israel complies, we will comply, and we retain our right to respond.” Another Hezbollah MP, Ali Fayyad, argued that the ceasefire is “meaningless” as long as Israeli forces remain on Lebanese territory.

Following a meeting with Defense Minister Yisrael Katz and Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu reiterated that Israel will remain in its security zone in southern Lebanon “for as long as necessary” to protect communities in the north.

Defense Minister Yisrael Katz responded to Washington with, “No one can tell us what to do.” He asserted that Israel will respond with force if Iran attacks, and will never abandon its occupation of Lebanon, Syria and Gaza. Katz claimed that Israeli forces have destroyed towns and villages along the Lebanon-Israel border and that approximately 200,000 Lebanese will never return to their homes.

Following a message from Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, Head of Iran’s Parliament and Negotiation Delegation Mohammad Bagher Kalibaf stated that Iran is determined to protect the rights of its people by upholding the established red lines and conditions, and emphasized that Iran relies not on the terms of the agreement but on its own strength.

Bekayi condemned Israel’s attacks on Lebanon, warned that they will have serious consequences, and held the US directly responsible. ^İran’s Foreign Minister Araki cited a post by Israel’s National Security Minister Ben-Gvir, declaring that “this genocidal death cult centered in Tel Aviv constitutes a threat to all of humanity.”

Chairman of Iran’s Parliament National Security Committee Ibrahim Azizi stated, “The US’s failure to adhere to Article 1 of the mutual understanding document demonstrates that it still lacks the will to earn the trust of the Iranian people.” He warned that ongoing violations will carry a heavy price.

Commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Major General Ismail Qaani, warned that forces in Gaza could launch major operations against Israel, asserting that Israel will “be overwhelmed by a flood.”

In a Truth Social post, Trump stated, “We did not sit at the table out of desperation; Iran did. The matter is settled.” He added that the US will complete the 60-day period and will “not give Iran a single cent.”

In an interview with NBC News, Trump said he spoke with Israel and urged the Tel Aviv government to accept a ceasefire with Hezbollah, describing the ceasefire as an “important development” and a “small dollop of cream on top of the cake.” Regarding his relationship with Netanyahu, he said, “I’ve always had a good relationship with Bibi. Sometimes you need to calm down and use your head.”

Former US President Barack Obama criticized the Trump administration’s deal with Iran in an NBC interview, stating, “We waged a war, spent billions of dollars, placed a heavy burden on our military, and caused many deaths — only to return to where we were before the war began, perhaps even worse.” He expressed satisfaction with the ceasefire and hoped it would endure.^.

UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper condemned Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir’s statement that “all of Lebanon should burn” as “terrible and disgusting” and called on both Israel and Hezbollah to adhere to the ceasefire.

On June 20, the Iranian Armed Forces’ operational unit, the Hatemu’l Enbiya Central Command, announced that it would close the Strait of Hormuz to shipping traffic due to the United States’ failure to fulfill its agreement obligations and Israel’s continued attacks on Lebanon. The statement, released by Iranian state television, cited the United States’ clear violation of its obligations under the signed agreement, Israel’s uninterrupted breach of the ceasefire by continuing its assaults on southern Lebanon, and its refusal to withdraw from southern Lebanon.

The statement, described as the first step taken in response to the United States’ failure to meet its obligations, included the following declaration: “If aggression continues, further steps will be planned and taken to compel the adversary to comply with its obligations.”

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On the same day, Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Ismail Bekayi announced that Iran’s delegation would travel to Switzerland to hold talks with the United States regarding implementation of the agreement and the cessation of Israel’s attacks on Lebanon. Bekayi stated that negotiations toward a final agreement would be contingent upon fulfillment of the five articles of the agreement.

According to Article 13 of the agreement, Bekayi explained that negotiations toward a final agreement are conditional upon the United States fulfilling its obligations under Articles 1, 4, 5, 10, and 11. “These conditions have not yet been met by the other side, and this mission is being undertaken to clarify how these obligations will be fulfilled,” he said.

Bekayi emphasized that the first article of the agreement, which calls for “ending all hostilities on all fronts including Lebanon,” is the “fundamental pillar of mutual obligations.” He stated that the United States is obligated to compel Israel to declare a ceasefire in Lebanon but has failed to do so, thereby clearly violating the agreement. Bekayi noted that failure to implement Article 1 undermines the entire agreement and warned that if necessary measures are not immediately taken, the entire agreement will face serious challenges.

On June 20, U.S. Vice President JD Vance told American Fox News that U.S.-Iran talks in Switzerland could begin as early as the next day and that he himself would travel to the country within a few days. Vance indicated that Iranian, Qatari, and Pakistani officials were expected to arrive in Switzerland, and when asked about the timing of the talks, he responded: “As early as tomorrow.”

Vance stated he was “very confident” that Washington could sustain the current ceasefire despite “possible differences in strategic implementation.” Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, in an interview prior to Iran’s temporary closure announcement, he noted that 16 million barrels of oil had passed through the strait in the last 24 hours, a figure nearly reaching pre-war levels, and added that they had seen no evidence Iran intended to maintain the closure.

The Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that technical-level talks between the United States and Iran would take place on June 21 in the Swiss town of Bürgenstock. The statement indicated that representatives from the United States and Iran, along with mediators from Pakistan and Qatar, would participate in the talks. The Office of the Pakistani Prime Minister confirmed that Pakistan would be represented by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir.

Shortly after Iran’s announcement, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) issued a statement affirming that the Strait of Hormuz remained open. Without referencing Iran’s latest statement, CENTCOM noted that commercial shipping traffic through the strait had increased as of June 20 and stated: “Today, with 55 commercial vessels transiting, the safe passage along the international waterway is maintained, as these vessels carried substantial cargo and over 17 million barrels of oil to global markets.”

U.S. President Donald Trump also announced on social media the same day that no transit fees would be charged through the Strait of Hormuz during the 60-day ceasefire.

Following the Hatemu’l Enbiya Central Command’s announcement, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy Command warned ships not to transit the Strait of Hormuz. The warning stated that vessels must not approach the strait and that doing so would endanger their safety.

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Iranian state television announced that the Iranian delegation, designated as “Minab 168,” traveling to Zurich to discuss implementation of the agreement, included the Chairman of the Iranian Parliament and Negotiation Delegation, Mohammad Bagher Kalibaf, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abbas Araghchi. The delegation also included Deputy Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council Ali Bakri, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Kazem Garibabad, Spokesperson Bekayi, Central Bank President Abdolnasser Hemmati, and General Director of the National Iranian Oil Company Hamid Burd.

On June 20, Israeli Channel 12 television reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yisrael Katz had ordered the Israeli military to halt attacks on Lebanon but to remain in occupied territories.^[12] The Israeli military announced later that day that it had received a “ceasefire” order from Netanyahu, confirming that attacks on Lebanon had ceased except in areas designated as a “safe zone,” and that strikes and destruction targeting Ali al-Tahir Hill would continue.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian met in Tehran with Pakistan’s Interior Minister Muhsin Nakvi, who is mediating between the United States and Iran. According to Iran’s official news agency IRNA, the meeting covered bilateral relations, border trade, regional developments, and the signed agreement.

U.S. Vice President Vance departed Washington late at night for the planned Iran talks in Switzerland. The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed that Iran’s delegation, traveling to the town of Bürgenstock in the canton of Nidwalden to discuss implementation of the signed agreement, had arrived in the country and was welcomed with satisfaction.

At the start of the day, Vance, before boarding his plane for the talks, said: “I hope we can make progress on the nuclear issue and on the ceasefire in Lebanon.” He indicated he would remain in Switzerland for only one or two days and stressed that to make the ceasefire sustainable, hostilities must be halted for a sufficiently long period.

CENTCOM Spokesperson Tim Hawkins told Axios: “Iran does not control the Strait of Hormuz,” confirming that maritime traffic continued and that U.S. forces were monitoring the situation.

Meanwhile, Fars News Agency, citing an unnamed military official, reported that the Strait of Hormuz remained closed and that no vessels would be permitted to pass until a second announcement by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy.

The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs announced that both the U.S. and Pakistani delegations had departed for Bürgenstock to discuss implementation of the agreement and welcomed their arrival in the country.

In Iran, Member of the Expediency Discernment Council and former Commander-in-Chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Mohsen Rezaee, warned the Iranian delegation prior to the talks. Rezaee, who accused Washington of pursuing a “peace through strength” strategy, said: “The enemy has demonstrated its intent to undermine the agreement. Caution is essential; every ounce of optimism risks being exploited.”

Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi met with Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis in Bürgenstock to discuss issues related to the implementation of the agreement prior to his talks with the United States.

Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Negotiation Delegation Spokesperson Bekayi announced that the Iranian delegation would first meet with Pakistani and Qatari mediators, followed in the afternoon by a quadrilateral meeting involving the United States, Pakistan, and Qatar. Bekayi stated that the focus of the talks would be ending the war and implementing the agreement, and that issues such as the release of frozen assets and permission for oil sales would also be on the agenda.

President Pezeshkian, speaking at the 33rd Monetary and Banking Policies Symposium held at the Central Bank conference hall in Tehran, stated that the articles of the agreement with the United States were favorable to Iran and declared: “With the start of negotiations today, our $6 billion blocked in Qatar will be returned.”

Pezeshkian stated that the United States’ sole demand was “Iran not acquiring a nuclear bomb,” and emphasized that Iran’s nuclear activities would continue: “It is certain that we will never relinquish our right to uranium enrichment, and the other side will be forced to accept this.”

Iranian Parliament and Negotiation Delegation Chairman Kalibaf met in Switzerland with Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani to discuss matters related to the implementation of the agreement.

Spokesperson Bekayi reiterated that according to Article 13 of the agreement, negotiations toward a final agreement are contingent upon the United States fulfilling its obligations under Articles 1, 4, 5, 10, and 11. “Until the provision requiring the end of all hostilities on all fronts, including Lebanon, is implemented, negotiations for a final agreement are impossible,” he said. Bekayi emphasized that the focus of the talks in Switzerland was ending all hostilities, releasing frozen assets, and establishing arrangements for oil exports.^.

An unnamed Iranian source speaking to Fars News Agency stated that nuclear issues were not on the agenda for the Swiss meetings and that nuclear negotiations would only be brought up after implementation of Articles 1, 4, 10, and 11 began.

Another source speaking to Tasnim News Agency stated that if Israel continues its attacks on Lebanon and Lebanon’s territorial integrity is not guaranteed, Iran will refuse to negotiate on any other issue and will not open the Strait of Hormuz.

The first technical talks regarding implementation of the signed agreement between the United States and Iran, mediated by Pakistan and Qatar, commenced in the Swiss town of Bürgenstock. Officially named the “Lake Lucerne Summit,” the talks included U.S. Vice President Vance, President Trump’s Middle East Special Representative Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner; Iranian delegation members Kalibaf and Araghchi; Pakistani Prime Minister Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Munir; and Qatari Prime Minister Al Sani.

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According to a source close to the Iranian delegation speaking to Tasnim News Agency, the Iranian delegation opposed a planned handshake and joint photo opportunity with the U.S. delegation prior to the multilateral talks; as a result, the live broadcast and photo ceremony proceeded without the Iranian delegation.

Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Majid bin Mohammed Al Ansari announced that expert technical groups had been established to negotiate final agreement articles covering all aspects of the signed agreement. He thanked Pakistan for its mediation efforts and expressed appreciation to Türkiye for contributing to a positive atmosphere, as well as to Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates for their support.

During the talks, Trump, in a phone interview with Fox News, said he had spoken with Iranian officials about the Strait of Hormuz and threatened: “If they close the strait, they will have no country left.”

Trump stated that if necessary, the United States could seize control of the Strait of Hormuz and charge transit fees, and could take 20 percent of the oil passing through. In response to Pezeshkian’s declaration that Iran would never abandon its right to uranium enrichment, Trump replied: “He should watch what he says, or we will take the rest of the country.” He also posted on social media that Iran must prevent its “high-paid proxy forces” in Lebanon from causing trouble, or the United States would deliver “another very harsh blow” to Iran.

U.S. Vice President Vance, before the quadrilateral meeting, said “significant progress” had been made in just the last few hours and that “more progress” was expected. Vance claimed that the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the end of Iran’s nuclear program had already been achieved, and stated that the goal was to transform the Middle East through diplomacy and cooperation.^.

Qatari Prime Minister Al Sani stated that the meeting was “only the beginning of achieving our goals,” and that the real celebration would occur only upon reaching a final agreement.

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According to Fars News Agency, shortly after the quadrilateral talks began, they were suspended for internal consultations. During this time, Swiss Foreign Minister Cassis held separate meetings with Vance and Sharif to discuss implementation of the agreement, reiterating Switzerland’s readiness to mediate and reminding all parties that Switzerland had served as the protecting power for U.S. interests in Iran for nearly 50 years.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu asserted that Israel would maintain its occupation of southern Lebanon “as long as necessary.”^[43] In a speech at a summit organized by the Jewish News Syndicate (JNS), Netanyahu claimed that Israel’s attacks had destroyed Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and laid the groundwork for “the future downfall” of the Tehran regime.

Iranian Parliament and Negotiation Delegation Chairman Kalibaf responded to Trump’s threats with: “We do not take American threats seriously.”

Fars News Agency reported that the Iranian delegation had left the negotiation venue following Trump’s threats. However, a diplomat speaking to Axios reporter Barak Ravid stated that the Iranian delegation had not left and that talks were continuing.

Hezbollah Secretary General Naim Qassem stated that a ceasefire granting Israel freedom of movement would mean “continuation of attacks” and was unacceptable. He emphasized: “Israel will not remain in Lebanon,” demanding Israel’s withdrawal from all occupied territories.

Iranian delegation member Hossein Kourbanzadeh stated that the draft for the temporary lifting of sanctions on Iranian oil had been finalized. He confirmed discussions with the Qatari delegation regarding the release of frozen assets and emphasized that “the most important issue of the talks was Article 13 of the agreement.”

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Pakistan Prime Minister Sharif stated that the Iranian leadership was “sincere” in its support for peace in the Middle East, praised Tehran’s “honorable approach” to the crisis, and described Trump as a “man of peace.”

Late at night, Pakistani sources indicated that the negotiations in Switzerland had not ended but were suspended, and that the likelihood of their resumption on the same day was low. The sources reported that Pakistani and Qatari officials remained in contact with Iranian negotiators and were actively working to persuade them to resume talks.

The Foreign Ministries of Qatar and Pakistan announced that the quadrilateral talks between the United States and Iran in Bürgenstock had successfully concluded the first round “in a positive and constructive atmosphere.” The joint statement noted progress in various areas, including the establishment of a mechanism to continue technical negotiations.

According to the statement, the parties agreed to establish a high-level committee to oversee the political dimensions of mediation efforts and to adopt a roadmap aiming to reach a final agreement within 60 days. The chief negotiators will lead working groups on nuclear issues and sanctions and will provide regular reports to the committee.

The statement also noted the establishment of a communication channel between the parties to ensure safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz and prevent potential misunderstandings. The parties agreed to establish a de-confliction cell involving both sides and Lebanon to prevent military clashes in Lebanon. It was emphasized that technical talks would continue throughout the week in Bürgenstock.

Following the first round of talks, Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi stated that significant progress had been made toward ending the war in Lebanon: “Progress has been made toward ending the war in Lebanon under the mediation of Pakistan and Qatar.”

Araghchi emphasized that restrictions on Iran’s oil exports had been lifted, sanctions had ended, and part of Iran’s frozen assets had been released. He stated that the newly established de-confliction cell to prevent conflict in Lebanon would be the “first real test.”

Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Bekayi also confirmed that the Iranian delegation’s work in Switzerland had been “completed,” and that technical teams would continue their efforts to ensure the effective implementation of the agreement.

The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, in a written statement issued on 22 June, welcomed the “constructive progress” recorded during intense diplomatic talks held in Bürgenstock throughout the night of 21 to 22 June, referencing a joint statement issued the same day by mediators Qatar and Pakistan. The statement noted with approval the decision by the parties to establish a high-level committee based on a framework of mutual understanding, emphasizing that this committee would represent a positive step toward structuring the next phase of the political and technical process.

The statement also welcomed the agreement on a roadmap aimed at reaching a final agreement within 60 days, noting that this roadmap creates the conditions for the immediate resumption of new technical talks. “Switzerland, in line with its tradition of good-faith initiatives, is prepared to support this process. Our goal is for diplomacy to contribute to reducing tensions, ensuring stability and achieving peace,” it stated.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, in a statement posted on his social media account on 22 June, declared that the first high-level committee meeting held in Bürgenstock had ended “successfully.” Sharif highlighted that the talks were conducted in a positive and constructive atmosphere, noting “encouraging progress” including agreement on a roadmap toward a final agreement within 60 days and the establishment of a high-level committee for political oversight.

Sharif expressed appreciation for Iran and the United States for their “consistent commitment to constructive dialogue,” and thanked all “brotherly and friendly countries.” He further extended special thanks to Qatar for providing vital support in creating the necessary conditions for progress in the negotiations and to the Swiss government for hosting the talks.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, during a meeting with a delegation from the Maronite League on 22 June, affirmed Lebanon’s status as a sovereign state and welcomed all efforts to end the war, while rejecting any interference in its internal affairs. Aoun stated, “We distinguish between assistance and interference in internal affairs. We are a sovereign state and no one can negotiate on our behalf.”

Aoun emphasized that the state guarantees the security of all its citizens and defended the principle that “it is the state, not the sects,” that protects everyone. He noted that there is no alternative to a strong and unified state representing all Lebanese. Aoun affirmed that political disagreement is a democratic right but stressed that under Lebanon’s current conditions, division among its people must not be permitted. He identified the most effective path to combat corruption as the widespread adoption of e-government applications and the establishment of an independent judiciary.

Iran’s Judiciary Spokesperson Asgar Jihangir, during a weekly press briefing in Tehran on 22 June, announced that a total of 3,519 people lost their lives in attacks launched by the United States and Israel against Iran on 28 February. Jihangir reported that of those killed, 3,002 were men and 517 were women. He added that many of those who died in the explosions suffered severe damage to their bodily integrity and that considerable efforts were made to return the bodies to their families.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, in a speech delivered on 22 June at the Leaders Conference Hall in Tehran on the occasion of National Entrepreneurs Day, stated that Iran had attended the negotiations with the United States in Switzerland without making any concessions. Addressing criticism within the country regarding the negotiation process, Pezeshkian said, “Every message that leads to fragmentation and division is carrying water to the enemy’s mill. Such a climate of compromise has never existed before.”

Pezeshkian affirmed that Iran would not retreat if the other side disregarded its rights during negotiations. He noted that, at Iran’s request, the United States had withdrawn from Lebanon and that some positive developments had occurred.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance, in a statement made before leaving Bürgenstock on 22 June, said the United States had made considerable progress in weekend negotiations with Iran and had laid a “solid foundation for a successful final agreement.” Vance asserted that the Strait of Hormuz remains open, noting that oil and gas prices have begun to fall and that millions of barrels of crude oil and natural gas are now flowing through the strait. He added that the United States seeks to establish a coordination center to clear the strait of mines.

Vance stated that the United States wants to establish and has already established a “conflict prevention mechanism.” He said, “If fighting breaks out, if Hezbollah fires on Israel or if Israel responds, or if other conflicts emerge in the region, we must be able to talk to each other about how to stop the fighting, how to make the region safer, and how to protect our allies and everyone else.”

Vance highlighted that Iran has agreed to again invite inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), describing this as “the most exciting development for Americans and a major turning point.” He argued that this marks the “first step toward the permanent end of Iran’s nuclear weapons program.” Vance acknowledged claims circulating in international public opinion that Iran might withdraw from negotiations but noted that while the Iranian delegation had threatened to leave, it did not walk away. He confirmed that talks continued past 1:00 a.m. and that technical teams continued working.

Vance emphasized that Lebanon’s territorial integrity and sovereignty will be preserved and expressed confidence that achieving a point where Israel’s security is guaranteed will require “a great deal of work.” He stated this will require coordination with Lebanon’s armed forces and that Iran must rein in Hezbollah. Vance noted that the United States and Qatar have approved the release of Iran’s frozen assets and claimed the funds will be used to purchase “American soybeans, American corn and American wheat,” calling this a “classic Trump deal.”

Israeli President Isaac Herzog, in a speech at the Jewish News Syndicate’s International Policy Summit on 22 June, stated that serious concerns have emerged in Israel following the U.S.-Iran agreement. Herzog referred to the decision to establish a mechanism involving Tehran for a ceasefire in Lebanon and expressed concern that funds allegedly allocated to Iran could be redirected toward war efforts.

Herzog argued that Iran should not have a say in Lebanon’s future and insisted that the dispute must be resolved through direct negotiations between Israel and Lebanon. He claimed that linking the issue to Iran would “weaken the Lebanese.” Herzog noted that new talks between Israel and Lebanon would be held in Washington the following day. He described Trump as “Israel’s reliable partner” and rejected “any derogatory remarks” directed at senior officials in the administration.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, for the first time since the decision to establish a new mechanism to monitor the ceasefire in Lebanon following the Iran-U.S. negotiations, spoke on 22 June. In a video statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office, he affirmed that the directives issued to the Israeli military by himself and Defense Minister Yisrael Katz had not changed. Netanyahu asserted that despite the ceasefire, “Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon retain full freedom of movement,” stating that the military faces no restrictions and will remain in the territories it occupies.

U.S. President Donald Trump, in a social media post on 22 June, addressed the issue of nuclear weapons development in the ongoing negotiations with Iran, saying, “Everyone is well aware that Iran will accept comprehensive arms inspections to ensure ‘nuclear honesty’ for a long time to come.”

Iran’s Foreign Ministry and Negotiation Delegation Spokesperson Ismail Bekayi responded on 22 June to Vance’s claims that Iran had approved the reinvitation of IAEA inspectors and that the IAEA would begin inspections in Iran. Bekayi stated that Iran’s relations with the IAEA will proceed in accordance with its commitments under inspection agreements and decisions of the Iranian Parliament and the National Security Council.

In another statement made by Vance before returning from Switzerland to the United States on 22 June, he said the process is “laying the foundation for a transformed Middle East,” but that the construction phase is not yet complete. Vance stressed that the Tehran administration must be assessed “not by its words but by its actions.” He added, “You cannot trust anyone’s words. You must trust what they actually do. The admission of inspectors is an important step, but we still need to see what they will be allowed to do once they enter the country.”

Vance emphasized that the inspection regime will be strengthened to guarantee that Iran never acquires nuclear weapons again.

U.S. President Trump, while answering journalists’ questions during a signing ceremony in the Oval Office at the White House on 22 June, said the process with Iran was progressing positively and added, “If Iran does not fulfill the requirements of the agreement or behaves appropriately, I will do what I must.” Trump claimed Iran has suffered serious losses, saying, “Its navy is gone, its air force is gone, its leaders are dead, its economy has collapsed.” He also alleged that Iran’s missiles, drones and air defense systems have suffered heavy damage.

Trump pointed to the open status of the Strait of Hormuz, stating, “We have achieved two important results. First, the strait is open and will remain open. Second, Iran will never possess nuclear weapons.” He claimed the United States has “full control” over the strait and argued that the naval blockade against Iran has been more effective than air strikes, saying a similar measure could be reimposed if necessary. “As long as they show us respect, we will have no problems,” he said.

In response to a question about the impact of Netanyahu’s statement that the Israeli military will maintain its presence in Lebanon, Trump replied, “I am a problem solver, and I solve problems very quickly.” Without directly criticizing Netanyahu, he praised the diplomacy of Foreign Minister Marco Rubio and also commended Vice President Vance’s statements from Switzerland, saying, “He is a very smart man and did an outstanding job.”

On 23 June, an unnamed U.S. official stated that the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) had launched a “monitoring mechanism” to observe the ceasefire and “conflict” situation in Lebanon, with the aim of “ending violence.” The official noted that this step followed telephone conversations between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Lebanese President Aoun, adding, “We are enabling Israel and Lebanon, as two sovereign states, to meet and find a path to peace and security.” The official affirmed that talks would continue toward a comprehensive peace and security agreement between the two countries.

Iranian President Pezeshkian, in a social media statement on 23 June, emphasized that the progress achieved in talks with the United States depends on the parties’ commitment to the obligations outlined in the framework agreement and its full implementation. Pezeshkian warned that any statements beyond the agreed text would negatively affect negotiations and noted that progress in the negotiation process must be measured by the actual fulfillment of responsibilities.

Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Garibabadi, who led the Iranian delegation in technical negotiations with the United States in Switzerland, announced on 23 June that the technical talks had been completed. He stated that the parties had agreed to establish four working groups on the following topics: “lifting sanctions,” “nuclear issues,” “restructuring and economic development,” and “monitoring and implementation.” These groups will address technical details.

Garibabadi announced that the parties had also agreed to establish a contact point to coordinate the safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz and a joint coordination unit to prevent conflicts in Lebanon. He said future negotiations will be conducted under the oversight of a high-level committee chaired by Iran’s Speaker of Parliament and Foreign Minister, the U.S. Vice President, and the Prime Ministers of Pakistan and Qatar. Technical team leaders will coordinate with working groups and coordination units and submit regular reports to the committee.

Garibabadi confirmed that an agreement had been reached to immediately move into the implementation phase of two signed agreements totaling $12 billion (two installments of $6 billion each). He noted that during the technical talks, Iran had received a general license for all sales of its crude oil and petrochemical products and that necessary procedures for the release of frozen assets had been completed. He reminded that the general license had been published on the website of the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

Spokesperson Bekayi, during a weekly press briefing in Tehran on 23 June, responded to claims that the released frozen assets would be used to purchase specific products, saying, “There is no restriction on the use of frozen assets. They will be used in whatever way benefits the country.”

In response to a question about whether a trust relationship could be established with the United States economically if it fulfills its obligations under the framework agreement, Bekayi replied, “We will think about tomorrow’s possibilities tomorrow. Our current focus is on ensuring the United States fulfills its obligations under the framework agreement. A long process lies ahead.” He confirmed that the Iranian delegation did not meet with IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi during the talks in Switzerland and that no program exists for the IAEA to begin inspections at damaged nuclear facilities. “Iran’s defense capabilities and missile program were never discussed and will never be a subject of negotiation,” he said.

Bekayi also emphasized that, according to the framework agreement, the United States must not increase its military presence in the region during negotiations and must withdraw its military elements from areas near Iran after a final agreement. He noted that Iran is closely monitoring this issue. Bekayi also mentioned Rubio’s upcoming visit to the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Bahrain, stating that any security mechanisms emerging in the region must be based solely on cooperation among regional countries and that the consequences of the U.S. military presence in the region are already evident.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Sharif, in a speech delivered in the National Assembly on 23 June, stated that Pakistan had served as a bridge to bring both sides to the table and that negotiations, which began on Sunday, ended after midnight on Monday. Sharif noted that technical talks between the United States and Iran will continue for the next two months, covering Iran’s nuclear program, ballistic missile capacity, lifting of sanctions and release of frozen assets.

Sharif said, “If ongoing negotiations are successfully concluded, the framework agreement could evolve into a permanent and long-term agreement within 60 days.” He also shared information that Iranian President Pezeshkian will visit Pakistan to discuss bilateral relations and economic cooperation.

On 23 June, Iranian President Pezeshkian traveled to Pakistan at the invitation of Pakistani Prime Minister Sharif and Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir. Before his departure, Pezeshkian stated that Pakistani officials have played a vital role in the diplomatic process with the United States and that his visit aims to ensure that all provisions of the framework agreement are implemented within the framework of international law and in accordance with the rights and freedoms of the Iranian people.

Pezeshkian emphasized that Iran seeks the full implementation of the agreement, saying, “The implementation of this framework agreement could reduce many problems in the region.” He said that during his visit to Pakistan, discussions would cover trade, economy, culture, security and military affairs, as well as peace and security. He noted that expanding Iran’s relations with Turkey, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and other Islamic countries in the region remains a top priority of the government, consistent with the approach emphasized by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei.

Omani Sultan Haitham bin Tariq received the Iranian delegation led by Speaker of the Iranian Parliament Mohammad Bagher Kalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Muscat on 23 June, following the talks in Switzerland. According to Oman’s official news agency ONA, the meeting addressed recent developments in the Iran-U.S. negotiations, with Sultan Haitham obtaining information from the Iranian delegation. The Sultan expressed his hope that “safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz will be restored and that peaceful and final solutions will be found for all issues, especially the nuclear matter.”

Iranian Parliament Speaker Kalibaf, in a statement made upon returning from Switzerland on 23 June, said the talks had achieved “significant gains” particularly on the Strait of Hormuz, Lebanon, oil exemptions and the release of frozen assets, but stressed that the process is still at an early stage and that work must continue.

Kalibaf said preparatory work for the release of two separate $6 billion installments under Article 11 of the framework agreement was completed during a visit to Qatar, with the final signature occurring during the Swiss visit. He noted that under Article 10, a general exemption from sanctions on the sale of crude oil, petrochemicals and derivatives has been granted, valid until the final agreement, and that related agreements have been signed. On Lebanon, Kalibaf said an agreement was reached to establish a coordination center to prevent escalation into conflict and to ensure Israel’s withdrawal from occupied areas. Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, he reiterated that “the management of the strait will never return to its pre-war condition,” and that an emergency communication line and coordination center have been agreed upon.

Iranian Central Bank President Abdolnasser Hemmati responded to Trump’s claim that the released funds would be used to purchase American agricultural products by stating that Iran has “no obligation” to buy from the United States. Hemmati said that according to the agreement, the first $6 billion may be used to purchase essential goods and medicines, but if American products are competitively priced and of good quality, there is no barrier to purchasing them from the United States. The second $6 billion may be used to purchase other products outside the scope of sanctions.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury has exempted Iran’s sales of crude oil, petrochemicals and oil products from sanctions until 21 August, a move described as granting Iran the ability to sell oil in U.S. dollars for the first time in decades. Democratic members of the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs criticized the administration on social media for granting comprehensive sanctions relief without progress on nuclear programs and proxy forces, arguing that these steps are “inconsistent with the administration’s own rhetoric.”

Following their meeting in Muscat on 23 June, Iranian Parliament Speaker Kalibaf and Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi confirmed their commitment to the principle of “navigation without transit fees” through the Strait of Hormuz. Albusaidi noted that constructive talks had been conducted on the agreement’s provisions concerning the Strait and emphasized the parties’ adherence to international law and free passage. Iran reiterated that the management of the strait will not revert to its pre-war state, while affirming that current transit will remain free of charge.