Washington, Jun 19 (V7N) – The United States has begun lifting its naval blockade on Iran after Washington and Tehran signed a landmark agreement aimed at ending the Middle East war and opening the door to broader negotiations.
The US Central Command announced that the blockade was lifted on the instruction of President Donald Trump, marking a major step in implementing the newly signed memorandum of understanding between the two countries.
Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said he approved the agreement despite reservations, adding that he did so after receiving assurances from President Masoud Pezeshkian that Iran's national interests and rights would be protected. He stressed that future direct talks with Washington would not mean Tehran was accepting the US position on key issues.
President Trump did not directly respond to Khamenei's remarks but expressed hope that the ceasefire would hold across the region, including in conflicts involving Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement. He also urged Middle Eastern nations to honor their commitments and continue the negotiation process.
Speaking at the White House, US Vice President JD Vance said the agreement had already entered into force and launched a 60-day period of negotiations aimed at reaching a final settlement. He indicated that technical talks between American and Iranian officials are expected to take place in Switzerland in the coming days.
Vance emphasized that Iran would not receive any financial benefits or sanctions relief until it fulfilled the conditions outlined in the agreement.
The 14-point accord includes provisions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring that Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons, and establishing a $300 billion reconstruction and economic development fund for Iran. The agreement also calls for both sides to work toward a comprehensive final deal within 60 days, with the possibility of an extension by mutual consent.
Although a formal signing ceremony had been scheduled for Friday in Switzerland, mediator Pakistan announced that the event was canceled because the agreement had already been signed remotely. Nevertheless, representatives from both countries are expected to meet in Switzerland to continue negotiations and discuss implementation of the deal.
The agreement is widely seen as a significant diplomatic breakthrough and could reshape the political and security landscape of the Middle East after months of conflict and regional tensions.
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