Fresh confusion over U.S.-Iran diplomacy. President Donald Trump says Iran requested talks in Doha, calling the meeting "perhaps important, perhaps not." But Tehran has denied that any negotiations with Washington are scheduled. Here's what both sides are saying and what it could mean for the Iran-U.S. Peace Deal. 


Trump Says Meeting With Iran 'Perhaps' Important

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said its Navy targeted locations where US forces are deployed after the US military said it carried out airstrikes on Iranian missile and drone storage sites, along with coastal radar locations, in response to an Iranian drone attack on a commercial cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;&nbsp;The IRGC did not specify the locations it targeted or provide further details.&nbsp;It also condemned the US strikes, accusing Washington of breaching its commitments.&nbsp;"As always, it violated its commitments and launched an air strike" on the Iranian coast, the statement said.&nbsp;"According to Article 5 of the Memorandum of Understanding, Islamabad has arrangements for controlling traffic in the Strait of Hormuz with the Islamic Republic of Iran. However, the US, by inciting various parties, sought to violate this commitment, which was met with the necessary response," it added.&nbsp;Iran also warned of the broader response to the United States if it attacks the Islamic Republic in future. "If the aggression is repeated, our response will be more extensive," the IRGC said.<h2>Vance warns Iran against further attacks</h2>Shortly after the US strikes, Vice President JD Vance warned Iran it would face "violence" if it carried out any further attacks following the US response to the drone strike on the cargo ship.&nbsp;"Iran signed a ceasefire agreement. We have honoured it. If they have disagreements about how the MOU is being applied, they can pick up the phone. But violence will be met with violence," Vance posted on X, referring to the memorandum of understanding aimed at ending nearly four months of conflict.

The development came shortly after the US military said it had carried out airstrikes on Iranian missile and drone storage sites, as well as coastal radar locations, in response to an Iranian drone attack on a commercial cargo ship transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said its Navy targeted locations where US forces are deployed after the US military said it carried out airstrikes on Iranian missile and drone storage sites, along with coastal radar locations, in response to an Iranian drone attack on a commercial cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz. The IRGC did not specify the locations it targeted or provide further details. It also condemned the US strikes, accusing Washington of breaching its commitments. "As always, it violated its commitments and launched an air strike" on the Iranian coast, the statement said. "According to Article 5 of the Memorandum of Understanding, Islamabad has arrangements for controlling traffic in the Strait of Hormuz with the Islamic Republic of Iran. However, the US, by inciting various parties, sought to violate this commitment, which was met with the necessary response," it added. Iran also warned of the broader response to the United States if it attacks the Islamic Republic in future. "If the aggression is repeated, our response will be more extensive," the IRGC said. Vance warns Iran against further attacks Shortly after the US strikes, Vice President JD Vance warned Iran it would face "violence" if it carried out any further attacks following the US response to the drone strike on the cargo ship. "Iran signed a ceasefire agreement. We have honoured it. If they have disagreements about how the MOU is being applied, they can pick up the phone. But violence will be met with violence," Vance posted on X, referring to the memorandum of understanding aimed at ending nearly four months of conflict.

The development came shortly after the US military said it had carried out airstrikes on Iranian missile and drone storage sites, as well as coastal radar locations, in response to an Iranian drone attack on a commercial cargo ship transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran says it targeted US positions in retaliation for American strikes

The US military carried out airstrikes on Iranian missile and drone storage sites, along with coastal radar locations, on Friday in response to an Iranian drone attack on a commercial cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said.&nbsp;According to CENTCOM, the strikes followed Iran's June 25 attack on the Singapore-flagged cargo ship M/V Ever Lovely as it was leaving the Strait of Hormuz along the Omani coast.&nbsp;“U.S. aircraft struck Iranian missile and drone storage locations and coastal radar sites after Iran hit M/V Ever Lovely on June 25 with a one-way attack drone. The Singapore-flagged cargo ship was exiting the Strait of Hormuz along the Omani coast at the time of Iran’s attack,” Centcom said on X.&nbsp;The unwarranted aggression against commercial shipping by Iranian forces clearly violated the ceasefire. Furthermore, Iran’s dangerous behaviour undermined freedom of navigation as commerce increasingly flows through the vital international trade corridor," it added.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/W4zjNqnmCt">https://t.co/W4zjNqnmCt</a>&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/2070607101207232829?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-israel-lebanon-sign-trilateral-framework-agreement-after-fifth-round-of-talks-in-dc-1782498292166">US, Israel, Lebanon sign trilateral framework agreement after fifth round of talks in DC</a>&nbsp;The US military said Iran's attack on the commercial vessel violated the ceasefire and threatened freedom of navigation through one of the world's busiest maritime trade routes. It added that American forces would continue coordinating safe passage for commercial ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz while remaining vigilant to enforce the agreement with Iran.&nbsp;The strikes came hours after US President Donald Trump condemned what he described as an Iranian drone attack on the cargo vessel, calling it "Obviously, this is a foolish violation of our ceasefire agreement."&nbsp;Speaking to reporters at the White House on Friday, Trump declined to say how Washington might respond or whether he believed the ceasefire remained in force."You'll find out," he said. "I don't like the fact that they took a shot yesterday. They shouldn't be doing that."&nbsp;The latest incident has raised fresh concerns over efforts to keep the Strait of Hormuz open as Washington and Tehran continue negotiations on a permanent settlement to the conflict that began with US and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28.&nbsp;Iran has warned ships against entering or leaving the Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz without its permission. Despite the warning, commercial vessels have continued to transit the waterway, with some using routes not authorised by Tehran.&nbsp;The drone attack occurred just over a week after Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signed a memorandum of understanding on June 17 aimed at securing a permanent peace agreement between the two countries.

The US military said the strikes were a powerful response to yesterday's attack on a commercial ship transiting the Strait of Hormuz, adding that it remains vigilant to ensure the agreement with Iran is fully observed.


The US military carried out airstrikes on Iranian missile and drone storage sites, along with coastal radar locations, on Friday in response to an Iranian drone attack on a commercial cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said. According to CENTCOM, the strikes followed Iran's June 25 attack on the Singapore-flagged cargo ship M/V Ever Lovely as it was leaving the Strait of Hormuz along the Omani coast. “U.S. aircraft struck Iranian missile and drone storage locations and coastal radar sites after Iran hit M/V Ever Lovely on June 25 with a one-way attack drone. The Singapore-flagged cargo ship was exiting the Strait of Hormuz along the Omani coast at the time of Iran’s attack,” Centcom said on X. The unwarranted aggression against commercial shipping by Iranian forces clearly violated the ceasefire. Furthermore, Iran’s dangerous behaviour undermined freedom of navigation as commerce increasingly flows through the vital international trade corridor," it added.

The US military said the strikes were a powerful response to yesterday's attack on a commercial ship transiting the Strait of Hormuz, adding that it remains vigilant to ensure the agreement with Iran is fully observed. &nbsp;

US strikes Iran in 'powerful response' to drone attack on cargo ship in Strait of Hormuz

According to a report, wounded US soldiers and their families accuse the army of downplaying war injuries. Another report details how Iran damaged a US Naval base and caused a US recalculation. Have Trump's darkest Iran war secrets been exposed? 

Trump's Iran war secrets: Major damage to US naval base

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) attacked a Singapore-flagged cargo ship, Ever Lovely, in the Strait of Hormuz using a drone, Fox News reported, citing two US officials. The incident came just days after a Memorandum of Understanding to pause the 110-day West Asia war was finalised and signed on June 17 by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.&nbsp;According to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the attack took place about 7.5 nautical miles southeast of Dahit, Oman, as the vessel was leaving the Strait of Hormuz. The drone strike damaged the ship's bridge, but no casualties or environmental impact were reported.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">UKMTO WARNING 074-26 - ATTACK Click here to view the full warning.⤵️ <a href="https://t.co/0hDEAb7xO9">https://t.co/0hDEAb7xO9</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/MaritimeSecurity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MaritimeSecurity</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/MarSec?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MarSec</a> <a href="https://t.co/HlPzQDLBja">pic.twitter.com/HlPzQDLBja</a>&mdash; UKMTO Operations Centre (@UK_MTO) <a href="https://x.com/UK_MTO/status/2070160682264269241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"A cargo vessel has been hit on the starboard side by an unknown projectile, causing damage to the bridge," UKMTO said in an advisory, noting there were no reported casualties or environmental impact.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-proposes-joint-hormuz-toll-plan-with-gulf-neighbours-to-share-40-billion-revenue-1782427719649">Iran proposes joint Hormuz toll plan with Gulf neighbours to share $40 billion revenue</a><h2>IMO pauses vessel evacuation plan</h2>Following the attack, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), the United Nations agency responsible for global shipping safety, temporarily suspended its vessel evacuation operation in the region.&nbsp;IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez said the decision was taken to verify that safety guarantees remain in place for ships covered under the evacuation framework and for other vessels operating in the area.&nbsp;"I have decided to temporarily pause (the evacuation plan's) implementation in order to reconfirm that the necessary safety guarantees continue to be in place for the ships on our evacuation list and all those in the region," Dominguez said in a statement.&nbsp;He added that Ever Lovely had already passed through the Strait of Hormuz and was not part of the IMO evacuation framework.&nbsp;The attack came after the Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA), a body established by Iran to manage the strait, warned that vessels travelling outside designated routes would not be guaranteed safe passage.&nbsp;In a post on X, the PGSA said: "Any consequences arising from the use of unauthorised routes shall be the responsibility of the vessel's owner, operator and master".&nbsp;Earlier, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington wanted an agreement with Iran but not at any cost.&nbsp;"We want to ensure... that there is no part of this deal that's undertaken that in any way undermines the security, the stability or the prosperity of any of our partners in the Gulf region," Rubio said.&nbsp;He also reassured Gulf countries that the Strait of Hormuz would remain free of transit charges.

According to the UKMTO, a drone struck the cargo ship about 7.5 nautical miles southeast of Dahit, Oman, as it exited the Strait of Hormuz, damaging its bridge without causing any casualties or environmental impact.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) attacked a Singapore-flagged cargo ship, Ever Lovely, in the Strait of Hormuz using a drone, Fox News reported, citing two US officials. The incident came just days after a Memorandum of Understanding to pause the 110-day West Asia war was finalised and signed on June 17 by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. According to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the attack took place about 7.5 nautical miles southeast of Dahit, Oman, as the vessel was leaving the Strait of Hormuz. The drone strike damaged the ship's bridge, but no casualties or environmental impact were reported.

According to the UKMTO, a drone struck the cargo ship about 7.5 nautical miles southeast of Dahit, Oman, as it exited the Strait of Hormuz, damaging its bridge without causing any casualties or environmental impact.

Iran targets commercial vessel in Strait of Hormuz days after ceasefire: Report

Iran is pushing a proposal that could allow it to generate billions of dollars annually from the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important oil shipping routes, according to officials familiar with the matter cited by The Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;The proposal would require ships passing through the strait to pay for "security, safety and environmental services." Iranian officials estimate the arrangement could generate about $40 billion a year for the participating countries. If implemented, the plan would provide Tehran with a new source of revenue and greater control over the strategic waterway than it had before the war.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-earthquakes-kill-at-least-188-injure-1-520-as-search-and-rescue-efforts-intensify-1782415700179">Venezuela earthquakes kill at least 188, injure 1,520 as search and rescue efforts intensify</a><h2>Iran seeks regional backing for the proposal</h2>According to Iranian officials, Tehran is presenting the proposal to countries across the Middle East and as far as China to build support. Iran also wants its Persian Gulf neighbours to join the arrangement and share the revenue.&nbsp;Iran is studying similar systems used elsewhere, including the Dardanelles, where Turkey charges ships a passage tax known as the "gold franc" for travel between the Aegean Sea and the international waterway.&nbsp;The proposal follows Tehran's declaration that the Strait of Hormuz would not return to its pre-war status and that ships using the route would have to pay a fee. The waterway carries nearly 20 per cent of the world's energy supply.&nbsp;"Everyone should know that management of the strait will never return to what it was before," Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who leads Iran's negotiating team, said during a visit to Oman on Tuesday, where he discussed the proposed arrangements with the country across the strait.&nbsp;However, the United States has rejected the proposal. Speaking during his visit to the Middle East this week, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said imposing fees on international shipping would set a dangerous precedent.&nbsp;"No country in the world has the right to charge for the use of international waterways, and that will never be an acceptable condition in any agreement," Rubio said in Bahrain.&nbsp;He also said Persian Gulf states had opposed the proposal to charge ships for passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

The proposal follows Iran's announcement that it plans to levy transit fees on ships using the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for nearly 20 per cent of global energy trade.

Iran is pushing a proposal that could allow it to generate billions of dollars annually from the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important oil shipping routes, according to officials familiar with the matter cited by The Wall Street Journal. The proposal would require ships passing through the strait to pay for "security, safety and environmental services." Iranian officials estimate the arrangement could generate about $40 billion a year for the participating countries. If implemented, the plan would provide Tehran with a new source of revenue and greater control over the strategic waterway than it had before the war. Also Read: Venezuela earthquakes kill at least 188, injure 1,520 as search and rescue efforts intensify Iran seeks regional backing for the proposal According to Iranian officials, Tehran is presenting the proposal to countries across the Middle East and as far as China to build support. Iran also wants its Persian Gulf neighbours to join the arrangement and share the revenue. Iran is studying similar systems used elsewhere, including the Dardanelles, where Turkey charges ships a passage tax known as the "gold franc" for travel between the Aegean Sea and the international waterway. The proposal follows Tehran's declaration that the Strait of Hormuz would not return to its pre-war status and that ships using the route would have to pay a fee. The waterway carries nearly 20 per cent of the world's energy supply. "Everyone should know that management of the strait will never return to what it was before," Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who leads Iran's negotiating team, said during a visit to Oman on Tuesday, where he discussed the proposed arrangements with the country across the strait. However, the United States has rejected the proposal. Speaking during his visit to the Middle East this week, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said imposing fees on international shipping would set a dangerous precedent. "No country in the world has the right to charge for the use of international waterways, and that will never be an acceptable condition in any agreement," Rubio said in Bahrain. He also said Persian Gulf states had opposed the proposal to charge ships for passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

The proposal follows Iran's announcement that it plans to levy transit fees on ships using the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for nearly 20 per cent of global energy trade.

Iran proposes joint Hormuz toll plan with Gulf neighbours to share $40 billion revenue

Iran's IRGC Navy has warned vessels to strictly follow the routes announced by Tehran for passage through the Strait of Hormuz, saying any movement outside those lanes is "dangerous" and prohibited. In a statement carried by Iranian state media, the force said some authorities had announced a new shipping route without consulting or coordinating with the Islamic Republic. It described that move as unacceptable and warned that ships should not attempt to pass through any route outside the one approved by Iran.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-m-not-going-to-be-bullied-trump-gets-in-to-shouting-match-with-republican-senator-over-iran-war-as-questions-grow-over-peace-deal-1782346277095">'I'm not going to be bullied': Trump gets into a shouting match with Republican senator over Iran war as questions grow over peace deal</a><h2>Iran rejects alternative shipping lanes</h2>Tehran says recently announced routes through the Strait of Hormuz were introduced without its approval and are "unacceptable" and "dangerous"."A few hours ago, without informing or coordinating with the Islamic Republic of Iran, some authorities announced a new route for ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which is unacceptable and completely dangerous," the IRGC statement said, according to Iranian state media. It added that "The only permitted route for passing through the Strait of Hormuz is the routes announced by the Islamic Republic of Iran."The statement also stated that coordination with the IRGC Navy "through Channel 16" was a requirement "for passing through the Strait of Hormuz", while warning that "violating vessels will be dealt with."<h2>What new route through the Strait of Hormuz is the IRGC referring to?</h2>The United Nations' International Maritime Organization (IMO) recently introduced new evacuation routes to help move thousands of seafarers still stranded in the Gulf. Those routes include a passage close to the Omani coast for outgoing ships and another through Iranian waters for traffic in both directions.IMO chief Arsenio Dominguez said the agency hopes to see around 50 vessels evacuated each day through the new lanes.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-accuses-big-oil-companies-of-gouging-american-customers-says-gasoline-prices-better-start-going-down-a-lot-faster-usa-ogas-price-today-1782274625910">Trump accuses big oil companies of 'gouging' American customers, says 'gasoline prices better start going down a lot faster'</a><h2>Hormuz traffic slowly rebounds</h2>The warning comes at a sensitive moment for one of the world's busiest and most strategically important waterways.According to maritime tracking data, after months of blockades, shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has finally started improving after Iran and the United States agreed to a memorandum of understanding on June 14. On Tuesday, Kpler recorded 25 commodity ship transits through the strait, with 17 more logged by Wednesday afternoon. That was down from 38 transits on Monday, but still above levels seen before the agreement.Between March 1 and June 14, the same data showed fewer than 10 daily crossings on average. Since June 15, that number has climbed to about 22 ships per day. In normal times, roughly 120 vessels pass through the strait each day, carrying about a fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas exports.Large crude carriers have also begun moving more freely. Kpler data showed three very large crude carriers crossed on Wednesday, together transporting 4.1 million barrels of crude oil out of the Gulf. On Tuesday, five VLCCs crossed the strait, three of them loaded. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran's IRGC Navy has warned vessels to use only Tehran-approved shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz, rejecting newly announced evacuation routes and threatening action against ships that violate its instructions, even as traffic through the strategic waterway begins to recover.

Iran's IRGC Navy has warned vessels to strictly follow the routes announced by Tehran for passage through the Strait of Hormuz, saying any movement outside those lanes is "dangerous" and prohibited. In a statement carried by Iranian state media, the force said some authorities had announced a new shipping route without consulting or coordinating with the Islamic Republic. It described that move as unacceptable and warned that ships should not attempt to pass through any route outside the one approved by Iran. Also read | 'I'm not going to be bullied': Trump gets into a shouting match with Republican senator over Iran war as questions grow over peace deal Iran rejects alternative shipping lanes Tehran says recently announced routes through the Strait of Hormuz were introduced without its approval and are "unacceptable" and "dangerous". "A few hours ago, without informing or coordinating with the Islamic Republic of Iran, some authorities announced a new route for ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which is unacceptable and completely dangerous," the IRGC statement said, according to Iranian state media. It added that "The only permitted route for passing through the Strait of Hormuz is the routes announced by the Islamic Republic of Iran." The statement also stated that coordination with the IRGC Navy "through Channel 16" was a requirement "for passing through the Strait of Hormuz", while warning that "violating vessels will be dealt with." What new route through the Strait of Hormuz is the IRGC referring to? The United Nations' International Maritime Organization (IMO) recently introduced new evacuation routes to help move thousands of seafarers still stranded in the Gulf. Those routes include a passage close to the Omani coast for outgoing ships and another through Iranian waters for traffic in both directions. IMO chief Arsenio Dominguez said the agency hopes to see around 50 vessels evacuated each day through the new lanes. Also read | Trump accuses big oil companies of 'gouging' American customers, says 'gasoline prices better start going down a lot faster' Hormuz traffic slowly rebounds The warning comes at a sensitive moment for one of the world's busiest and most strategically important waterways. According to maritime tracking data, after months of blockades, shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has finally started improving after Iran and the United States agreed to a memorandum of understanding on June 14. On Tuesday, Kpler recorded 25 commodity ship transits through the strait, with 17 more logged by Wednesday afternoon. That was down from 38 transits on Monday, but still above levels seen before the agreement. Between March 1 and June 14, the same data showed fewer than 10 daily crossings on average. Since June 15, that number has climbed to about 22 ships per day. In normal times, roughly 120 vessels pass through the strait each day, carrying about a fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas exports. Large crude carriers have also begun moving more freely. Kpler data showed three very large crude carriers crossed on Wednesday, together transporting 4.1 million barrels of crude oil out of the Gulf. On Tuesday, five VLCCs crossed the strait, three of them loaded. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran's IRGC Navy has warned vessels to use only Tehran-approved shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz, rejecting newly announced evacuation routes and threatening action against ships that violate its instructions, even as traffic through the strategic waterway begins to recover.

'Violating vessels will be dealt with': IRGC warns ships to stick to designated routes in Strait of Hormuz as traffic picks up

US President Donald Trump’s administration on Wednesday (Jun 24) has sent a request to Congress for about $87.6 billion in funding to address “urgent needs”. Most of the funding is sought by the Pentagon to cover expenses related to the Iran war. The proposal also includes money for Ebola response efforts in Central Africa and financial support for American farmers.“We look forward to working with Congress to get this passed on behalf of the Warfighter and ensure we remain ready to respond to contingencies today,” spokesman Sean Parnell said in a statement.The Department of War has requested for $67 billion in funds, including $21 billion for munitions, $17.3 billion for operational costs and $12.1 billion for classified programs. The Pentagon has stated that it needs $767.5 million for the Department of Energy related to the war and Iran’s nuclear capabilities. It has also cited $300 million for the State Department for embassy security and construction in countries surrounding Iran.The development comes at a politically challenging moment for the White House as the Trump administration faces increasing concerns over the economic impact of the conflict in the Middle East. Lawmakers are also under intense pressure to justify war-related spending. Democrats have already expressed criticism for the proposal, arguing that much of the requested funding should be reviewed through the normal budget process rather than through emergency legislation.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-of-the-worst-in-business-trump-threatens-to-sue-abc-news-over-reflecting-pool-report-1782195832015">'One of the worst in business': Trump threatens to sue ABC news over Reflecting Pool report</a>“After dragging America into a reckless war, he now wants Congress to hand him tens of billions more to paper over the damage – while families are still paying higher prices,” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said on the supplemental request.Calling the request “an attempt to secure tens of billions of additional dollars for unrelated Pentagon priorities”, Sen. Patty Murray of Washington, the leading Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Committee, said that the funds “should rightly be considered through the annual appropriations process”.“I will closely review this request in its entirety and ensure we take care of our servicemembers, but I will not rubberstamp tens of billions more for this disastrous war of choice,” she said in a statement.Defending the proposal, GOP Sen. Roger Wicker of Mississippi, the chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said that the funding was “essential,” adding that it would “accelerate immediate production of key capabilities, from exquisite munitions to low-cost hypersonics, strike weapons and drones.”Apart from military spending, the proposal also seeks $11.1 billion in farm aid and $1.4 billion for efforts against the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and other parts of Africa.

The Trump administration has asked Congress for $88 billion in emergency funding to cover Iran war costs, Ebola outbreak response, military readiness and financial aid for American farmers.

US President Donald Trump’s administration on Wednesday (Jun 24) has sent a request to Congress for about $87.6 billion in funding to address “urgent needs”. Most of the funding is sought by the Pentagon to cover expenses related to the Iran war. The proposal also includes money for Ebola response efforts in Central Africa and financial support for American farmers. “We look forward to working with Congress to get this passed on behalf of the Warfighter and ensure we remain ready to respond to contingencies today,” spokesman Sean Parnell said in a statement. The Department of War has requested for $67 billion in funds, including $21 billion for munitions, $17.3 billion for operational costs and $12.1 billion for classified programs. The Pentagon has stated that it needs $767.5 million for the Department of Energy related to the war and Iran’s nuclear capabilities. It has also cited $300 million for the State Department for embassy security and construction in countries surrounding Iran. The development comes at a politically challenging moment for the White House as the Trump administration faces increasing concerns over the economic impact of the conflict in the Middle East. Lawmakers are also under intense pressure to justify war-related spending. Democrats have already expressed criticism for the proposal, arguing that much of the requested funding should be reviewed through the normal budget process rather than through emergency legislation. Also read | 'One of the worst in business': Trump threatens to sue ABC news over Reflecting Pool report “After dragging America into a reckless war, he now wants Congress to hand him tens of billions more to paper over the damage – while families are still paying higher prices,” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said on the supplemental request. Calling the request “an attempt to secure tens of billions of additional dollars for unrelated Pentagon priorities”, Sen. Patty Murray of Washington, the leading Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Committee, said that the funds “should rightly be considered through the annual appropriations process”. “I will closely review this request in its entirety and ensure we take care of our servicemembers, but I will not rubberstamp tens of billions more for this disastrous war of choice,” she said in a statement. Defending the proposal, GOP Sen. Roger Wicker of Mississippi, the chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said that the funding was “essential,” adding that it would “accelerate immediate production of key capabilities, from exquisite munitions to low-cost hypersonics, strike weapons and drones.” Apart from military spending, the proposal also seeks $11.1 billion in farm aid and $1.4 billion for efforts against the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and other parts of Africa.

The Trump administration has asked Congress for $88 billion in emergency funding to cover Iran war costs, Ebola outbreak response, military readiness and financial aid for American farmers.

Trump administration requests $88 billion for Iran war, other expenses

Commercial vessels are gradually returning to the Strait of Hormuz after weeks of uncertainty, but global shipping is far from back to normal. According to Allianz, around 1,200 ships carrying goods worth nearly $125 billion remain delayed or stranded. While maritime traffic has increased since the Hormuz deal, it remains below pre-conflict levels as confusion over security risks and shipping schedules continues. The situation highlights how geopolitical tensions can ripple through global trade and energy markets.


Hormuz Reopens, But $125 Billion In Goods Remain Stuck As Shipping Chaos Persists

Despite U.S. President Donald Trump's fresh threat to Iran, both sides agreed on a roadmap towards inking a final deal within sixty days. In a big development, U.S. lifted sanctions on sale of Iranian oil after claiming that Tehran agreed to allow free transit through Strait of Hormuz and IAEA inspections. Technical talks between U.S. and Iran are expected to continue in the next few days and weeks.


US Lifts Sanctions on Sale of Iranian Oil Amid Trump's Threat, Eyes 'Final Deal'

The proposed Iran-US agreement has triggered a heated debate inside Israel, with some ultra-Orthodox religious leaders linking the diplomatic breakthrough to the ongoing controversy over military conscription for Haredi Jews. Critics within the community argue that recent efforts to expand draft obligations have created deep tensions, while political and religious figures continue to debate the broader implications of the deal. 


Iran-US Peace Deal: Military Draft Row Fuels Ultra-Orthodox Anger Over Iran Agreement 

US President Donald Trump launched an attack on the New York Times newspaper, describing it as “corrupt and failing”. He accused them of engaging in “treasonous” activity with "fake and made-up ‘facts’. He warned that he would be adding all these reports to a multibillion-dollar lawsuit against them.&nbsp;He cited one particular analysis with the headline “What Changed After Almost 4 Months of War? Analysts Say Not Much,” and slammed the paper, calling it “unethical coward”. He argued that what changed is that Iran is at its worst phase, with a depleted army and navy, with inflation at 250 per cent. But the Hormuz is open, and the stock market is high.“Their Military is DONE, their Navy is GONE, their Air Force is GONE, their Launching Pads, Missiles, Drones and Manufacturing of same, is almost GONE, their top two sets of Leaders are GONE, their Inflation is at 250%, their Economy is BROKEN, their Soldiers aren’t being paid, the Hormuz Strait is OPEN, THE OIL IS GUSHING, and the U.S. Stock Market and Jobs are at record HIGHS. That’s what’s CHANGED, you corrupt and unethical cowards, and MORE!!!” wrote Trump in a Truth Social Post on Monday.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-pm-jd-vance-snub-video-us-iran-talks-switzerland-1782104299969">JD Vance 'snubbed' at US-Iran peace talks? Qatar PM shares photo with JD Vance after viral video</a>The report from NYT argued that roughly 100 days later, the “country’s nuclear program, while heavily damaged, was not eliminated - its fate punted to future negotiation.” It argued that Iran's ballistic missile, it proxies remain at large, and the most significant result of the agreement of reopening of Hormuz was at risk due to the US's inability to control Israel. The report quotes MIT professor Caitlin Talmadge, an expert on the Persian Gulf security issues, “I think it’s a document that has resulted from the fact that the United States bit off more than it could chew and doesn’t want to escalate.”Trump soon followed up with another post, this time calling them “criminals” and warning that a “multi-billion dollar” lawsuit was coming. “The way the Corrupt and Failing New York Times is covering stories on a very battered and beat up &nbsp;Iran, through FAKE &amp; MADE UP “FACTS” is, in my opinion, “TREASONOUS.” I will be adding all of their false and ridiculous reporting to my multi Billion Dollar lawsuit against them. They are Criminals!” wrote an exasperated Trump.&nbsp;

Donald Trump accused The New York Times of publishing “fake and made up facts” about Iran and threatened a multibillion-dollar lawsuit, calling the newspaper's reporting “treasonous” and “criminal.”

US President Donald Trump launched an attack on the New York Times newspaper, describing it as “corrupt and failing”. He accused them of engaging in “treasonous” activity with "fake and made-up ‘facts’. He warned that he would be adding all these reports to a multibillion-dollar lawsuit against them. He cited one particular analysis with the headline “What Changed After Almost 4 Months of War? Analysts Say Not Much,” and slammed the paper, calling it “unethical coward”. He argued that what changed is that Iran is at its worst phase, with a depleted army and navy, with inflation at 250 per cent. But the Hormuz is open, and the stock market is high. “Their Military is DONE, their Navy is GONE, their Air Force is GONE, their Launching Pads, Missiles, Drones and Manufacturing of same, is almost GONE, their top two sets of Leaders are GONE, their Inflation is at 250%, their Economy is BROKEN, their Soldiers aren’t being paid, the Hormuz Strait is OPEN, THE OIL IS GUSHING, and the U.S. Stock Market and Jobs are at record HIGHS. That’s what’s CHANGED, you corrupt and unethical cowards, and MORE!!!” wrote Trump in a Truth Social Post on Monday. Also Read: JD Vance 'snubbed' at US-Iran peace talks? Qatar PM shares photo with JD Vance after viral video The report from NYT argued that roughly 100 days later, the “country’s nuclear program, while heavily damaged, was not eliminated - its fate punted to future negotiation.” It argued that Iran's ballistic missile, it proxies remain at large, and the most significant result of the agreement of reopening of Hormuz was at risk due to the US's inability to control Israel. The report quotes MIT professor Caitlin Talmadge, an expert on the Persian Gulf security issues, “I think it’s a document that has resulted from the fact that the United States bit off more than it could chew and doesn’t want to escalate.” Trump soon followed up with another post, this time calling them “criminals” and warning that a “multi-billion dollar” lawsuit was coming. “The way the Corrupt and Failing New York Times is covering stories on a very battered and beat up Iran, through FAKE & MADE UP “FACTS” is, in my opinion, “TREASONOUS.” I will be adding all of their false and ridiculous reporting to my multi Billion Dollar lawsuit against them. They are Criminals!” wrote an exasperated Trump.

Donald Trump accused The New York Times of publishing “fake and made up facts” about Iran and threatened a multibillion-dollar lawsuit, calling the newspaper's reporting “treasonous” and “criminal.”

Trump calls New York Times ‘treasonous’, threatens multibillion-dollar lawsuit over Iran war coverage

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Jun 21) addressed his relationship with US President Donald Trump. Rejecting the claims suggesting that US President Donald Trump influences his decisions or that he controls the Republican, he insisted that both leaders independently make decisions in the interest of their nations. This comes amid speculations about whether they influence each other’s decisions over the Iran war.Speaking at the JNS Summit in Jerusalem, Netanyahu said, “In the United States, they say that President Trump does everything that I ask him to do. And in Israel, they say that I do everything he wants me to do. Well, neither is true.”“We’re leaders of independent and proud countries. We stand for our interests. I stand for the interests of Israel and for its security,” he added.The Israeli leader acknowledged that while Trump and he have the same view on most issues, they sometimes have disagreements. Despite this, they respect each other’s sovereignty and leadership, he stressed.“Often we see eye to eye. Sometimes we don’t. But we respect each other’s sovereignty and leadership and commitment to our people,” he said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-will-be-main-topic-of-discussion-tehran-says-ahead-of-us-iran-talks-in-switzerland-1782034242381">‘Lebanon will be main topic of discussion’: Tehran says ahead of US-Iran talks in Switzerland</a><h2>Troops in Lebanon to remain ‘as long as necessary’</h2>Speaking about the conflict in Lebanon, Netanyahu said that Israeli troops will stay in southern Lebanon as long as needed, despite the ceasefire reached under the US-Iran deal. He also vowed that he would not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons.“We will remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon for as long as necessary to protect the cherished residents of the north and all the citizens of Israel... Nothing will alter that commitment,” he said.He continued, “And with regard to Iran: whatever political developments may unfold, I will not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons. As long as I serve as prime minister of Israel, that will not happen.”Watch | US-Iran Peace Talks: US Vice President On His Connection With India &amp; Pakistan<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-peace-talks-us-vice-president-on-his-connection-with-india-pakistan-1782096108504/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-peace-talks-us-vice-president-on-his-connection-with-india-pakistan-1782096108504/embed</a>Netanyahu also reiterated that the war in the Middle East had achieved Israel’s key goal of preventing Iran from possessing a nuclear weapon.“We prevented Iran from carrying out a plan to annihilate us and today they would have had an atomic bomb to do so,” the Israeli leader said. “We prevented that from happening. We removed the existential danger. Had we not acted... Iran would have had atomic bombs and let me tell you something, they would have used them.”“That’s what we prevented,” he said.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Israeli PM Netanyahu rejected claims that US President Donald Trump influences his decisions, saying both leaders act independently. He also vowed to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and keep troops in Lebanon.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Jun 21) addressed his relationship with US President Donald Trump. Rejecting the claims suggesting that US President Donald Trump influences his decisions or that he controls the Republican, he insisted that both leaders independently make decisions in the interest of their nations. This comes amid speculations about whether they influence each other’s decisions over the Iran war. Speaking at the JNS Summit in Jerusalem, Netanyahu said, “In the United States, they say that President Trump does everything that I ask him to do. And in Israel, they say that I do everything he wants me to do. Well, neither is true.” “We’re leaders of independent and proud countries. We stand for our interests. I stand for the interests of Israel and for its security,” he added. The Israeli leader acknowledged that while Trump and he have the same view on most issues, they sometimes have disagreements. Despite this, they respect each other’s sovereignty and leadership, he stressed. “Often we see eye to eye. Sometimes we don’t. But we respect each other’s sovereignty and leadership and commitment to our people,” he said. Also read | ‘Lebanon will be main topic of discussion’: Tehran says ahead of US-Iran talks in Switzerland Troops in Lebanon to remain ‘as long as necessary’ Speaking about the conflict in Lebanon, Netanyahu said that Israeli troops will stay in southern Lebanon as long as needed, despite the ceasefire reached under the US-Iran deal. He also vowed that he would not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons. “We will remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon for as long as necessary to protect the cherished residents of the north and all the citizens of Israel... Nothing will alter that commitment,” he said. He continued, “And with regard to Iran: whatever political developments may unfold, I will not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons. As long as I serve as prime minister of Israel, that will not happen.” Watch | US-Iran Peace Talks: US Vice President On His Connection With India & Pakistan https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-peace-talks-us-vice-president-on-his-connection-with-india-pakistan-1782096108504/embed Netanyahu also reiterated that the war in the Middle East had achieved Israel’s key goal of preventing Iran from possessing a nuclear weapon. “We prevented Iran from carrying out a plan to annihilate us and today they would have had an atomic bomb to do so,” the Israeli leader said. “We prevented that from happening. We removed the existential danger. Had we not acted... Iran would have had atomic bombs and let me tell you something, they would have used them.” “That’s what we prevented,” he said. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Israeli PM Netanyahu rejected claims that US President Donald Trump influences his decisions, saying both leaders act independently. He also vowed to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and keep troops in Lebanon.

‘I stand for interests of Israel’: Netanyahu rejects claims Trump influences his decisions amid Iran war

US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Iran, demanding an immediate halt to proxy activities in Lebanon. Trump threatened "stronger military retaliation" if Iran fails to comply, echoing recent actions. This comes amid escalating regional tensions, despite US-led efforts for a ceasefire, as Iran-backed groups like Hezbollah continue their involvement in hostilities.


Trump To Fox News: Spoke With Iranian Officials Against Shutting Hormuz

The U.S.-Iran diplomatic thaw faces a critical test. As negotiators converge in Switzerland to solidify the "Islamabad Memorandum," reports reveal that Washington and Qatar are discussing a mechanism to release $6 billion in frozen Iranian assets for humanitarian aid. This potential lifeline aims to incentivize Iran’s full compliance with the 60-day peace framework.


US-Iran Peace Deal: US to Release $6B to Iran? Trump’s Risky Gamble for Middle East Peace! 

The Iranian delegation, led by Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, arrived in Zurich on Saturday for the first round of technical discussions with the United States under the 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at ending hostilities in West Asia, according to Iranian state media Press TV.&nbsp;The Iranian negotiating team has been named "Minab 168" in honour of the victims of the Minab school incident. Iranian officials have previously referenced the incident during diplomatic and political engagements on the international stage.&nbsp;The development comes as US Vice President JD Vance also departed for Switzerland to take part in negotiations focused on implementing the agreement signed by Washington and Tehran earlier this week.&nbsp;Before leaving Joint Base Andrews, Vance said the talks would centre on Iran's nuclear programme and the ceasefire in Lebanon.&nbsp;"I think we're going to hopefully make progress on the nuclear issue, make progress on the Lebanon ceasefire issue. Those are the two big things that I think we're to be focused on," Vance told reporters, adding that he expected to remain involved in the talks for only a short period.&nbsp;Negotiations were initially scheduled to begin in Switzerland on Friday, but were postponed after Israel launched a series of strikes in Lebanon following the deaths of four Israeli soldiers in combat.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-strike-kills-journalist-in-gaza-military-calls-him-hamas-terrorist-1781990599844">Israeli strike kills journalist in Gaza, military calls him 'Hamas terrorist'</a>&nbsp;<h2>Truce violations remain a key challenge</h2>Since then, Israel and Hezbollah have traded accusations of violating the newly established truce, which formed part of the preliminary understanding reached between the United States and Iran.&nbsp;Despite the tensions, Vance expressed optimism about developments in Lebanon."It's going to be something we're just going to have to continuously manage to ensure that... Israel and Lebanon are both safe and secure," he said.&nbsp;"The big problem is that you have somebody who will shoot and then somebody will respond, and you kind of have a chicken and egg problem where you've just got to stop the shooting for long enough to get the ceasefire to keep hold."&nbsp;Vance also noted that US negotiators Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff were already in Switzerland working on the technical aspects of the discussions.

The Iranian delegation has adopted the name "Minab 168" in tribute to the victims of the Minab school incident, which Iranian officials have frequently referenced during diplomatic and political engagements abroad.

The Iranian delegation, led by Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, arrived in Zurich on Saturday for the first round of technical discussions with the United States under the 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at ending hostilities in West Asia, according to Iranian state media Press TV. The Iranian negotiating team has been named "Minab 168" in honour of the victims of the Minab school incident. Iranian officials have previously referenced the incident during diplomatic and political engagements on the international stage. The development comes as US Vice President JD Vance also departed for Switzerland to take part in negotiations focused on implementing the agreement signed by Washington and Tehran earlier this week. Before leaving Joint Base Andrews, Vance said the talks would centre on Iran's nuclear programme and the ceasefire in Lebanon. "I think we're going to hopefully make progress on the nuclear issue, make progress on the Lebanon ceasefire issue. Those are the two big things that I think we're to be focused on," Vance told reporters, adding that he expected to remain involved in the talks for only a short period. Negotiations were initially scheduled to begin in Switzerland on Friday, but were postponed after Israel launched a series of strikes in Lebanon following the deaths of four Israeli soldiers in combat. Also Read: Israeli strike kills journalist in Gaza, military calls him 'Hamas terrorist' Truce violations remain a key challenge Since then, Israel and Hezbollah have traded accusations of violating the newly established truce, which formed part of the preliminary understanding reached between the United States and Iran. Despite the tensions, Vance expressed optimism about developments in Lebanon. "It's going to be something we're just going to have to continuously manage to ensure that... Israel and Lebanon are both safe and secure," he said. "The big problem is that you have somebody who will shoot and then somebody will respond, and you kind of have a chicken and egg problem where you've just got to stop the shooting for long enough to get the ceasefire to keep hold." Vance also noted that US negotiators Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff were already in Switzerland working on the technical aspects of the discussions.

The Iranian delegation has adopted the name "Minab 168" in tribute to the victims of the Minab school incident, which Iranian officials have frequently referenced during diplomatic and political engagements abroad.

Vance departs for Switzerland as Iranian delegation arrives in Zurich for negotiations

Iran's central military command announced on Saturday that it had once again closed the vital Strait of Hormuz over Israel's attacks on southern Lebanon, describing them as a breach of Tehran's agreement with the US. "It is hereby announced that the Strait of Hormuz will be closed to vessel traffic; It is noted that this first step is a response to the enemy's breach of promise, and if the aggression continues, further steps will be planned and taken to force the enemy to comply with its obligations," said the Khatam-al Anbiya Central Headquarters in a statement carried by state TV.

Hormuz Lockdown: Iran Takes First Step After Ceasefire Crisis

Iran's central military command announced on Saturday that it had once again closed the vital Strait of Hormuz over Israel's attacks on southern Lebanon, describing them as a breach of Tehran's agreement with the US. "It is hereby announced that the Strait of Hormuz will be closed to vessel traffic; It is noted that this first step is a response to the enemy's breach of promise, and if the aggression continues, further steps will be planned and taken to force the enemy to comply with its obligations," said the Khatam-al Anbiya Central Headquarters in a statement carried by state TV.


Iran Closes Hormuz, Cites Israeli Strikes on Lebanon as Ceasefire Breach

A new round of direct talks between the US and Iran have been postponed after Vice-President JD Vance delayed a planned trip to Switzerland.

The White House announced late on Thursday that Vance would not be travelling to the talks and said the logistics had not been "simple or predictable".

Iran-US Talks Postponed Over Lebanon Clashes

The newly signed US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding has drawn comparisons to what many historians describe as one of the biggest diplomatic mistakes of the last century. The criticism is largely linked to the choice of venue, the Palace of Versailles, where US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron signed the 14-point agreement.&nbsp;During the ceremony, Trump praised the location, saying, "Versailles is not a gold leaf. Versailles is the real deal." The remarks quickly sparked debate, with historians and political critics pointing to the historical significance of the palace and its connection to the 1919 Treaty of Versailles.&nbsp;<h2>Why the Treaty of Versailles is being cited</h2>The original Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, formally ending World War I between Germany and the Allied Powers, including the United States under President Woodrow Wilson.&nbsp;The agreement was designed to secure long-term peace, but it imposed heavy financial reparations, territorial losses and military restrictions on Germany. Critics of the treaty argue that these measures created widespread resentment and economic hardship within the country.&nbsp;According to historians, those conditions were later exploited by Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party, helping create the circumstances that eventually led to World War II.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-strips-zelensky-of-top-state-award-ukraine-mounts-a-sharp-response-1781898875497">Poland strips Zelensky of top state award, Ukraine mounts a sharp response</a><h2>Concerns raised over the Iran agreement</h2>Critics of the new US-Iran framework argue that it contains risks that echo some of the structural problems associated with the 1919 treaty.&nbsp;One major point of contention is a US-backed economic development and reconstruction programme for Iran valued at $300 billion. Former National Security Adviser Susan Rice criticised the proposal, describing it as "a jaw-dropping, horrific surrender document complete with hundreds of billions in reparations."&nbsp;Opponents argue that providing such large-scale economic support before all verification measures are completed could create future risks.&nbsp;Others have questioned whether a peace arrangement reached after intense military hostilities can deliver lasting stability. The agreement, referred to as the "Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding" by critics, includes a 60-day timeline to finalise issues related to Iran's nuclear programme and sanctions relief.&nbsp;While Trump defended the accord by highlighting record stock market gains and falling oil prices, critics argue that the timeline may leave important gaps unresolved.&nbsp;Some commentators have also focused on the symbolism of holding the signing ceremony at Versailles. They note that the palace is often viewed as a reminder of the challenges involved in building lasting peace after conflict.&nbsp;Some commentators have subtly questioned whether French President Emmanuel Macron capitalised on Trump's well-known affinity for grand, gilded architecture to stage-manage the moment. Because Versailles is historically viewed as a cautionary tale about war, peace, and unintended consequences, observers noted the deep irony of using it to celebrate a highly controversial, fast-tracked truce.

Signed in 1919 to end World War I, the Treaty of Versailles sought to establish peace but is often criticised for its harsh terms on Germany, which many historians believe contributed to the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party in the years that followed.

The newly signed US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding has drawn comparisons to what many historians describe as one of the biggest diplomatic mistakes of the last century. The criticism is largely linked to the choice of venue, the Palace of Versailles, where US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron signed the 14-point agreement. During the ceremony, Trump praised the location, saying, "Versailles is not a gold leaf. Versailles is the real deal." The remarks quickly sparked debate, with historians and political critics pointing to the historical significance of the palace and its connection to the 1919 Treaty of Versailles. Why the Treaty of Versailles is being cited The original Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, formally ending World War I between Germany and the Allied Powers, including the United States under President Woodrow Wilson. The agreement was designed to secure long-term peace, but it imposed heavy financial reparations, territorial losses and military restrictions on Germany. Critics of the treaty argue that these measures created widespread resentment and economic hardship within the country. According to historians, those conditions were later exploited by Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party, helping create the circumstances that eventually led to World War II. Also Read: Poland strips Zelensky of top state award, Ukraine mounts a sharp response Concerns raised over the Iran agreement Critics of the new US-Iran framework argue that it contains risks that echo some of the structural problems associated with the 1919 treaty. One major point of contention is a US-backed economic development and reconstruction programme for Iran valued at $300 billion. Former National Security Adviser Susan Rice criticised the proposal, describing it as "a jaw-dropping, horrific surrender document complete with hundreds of billions in reparations." Opponents argue that providing such large-scale economic support before all verification measures are completed could create future risks. Others have questioned whether a peace arrangement reached after intense military hostilities can deliver lasting stability. The agreement, referred to as the "Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding" by critics, includes a 60-day timeline to finalise issues related to Iran's nuclear programme and sanctions relief. While Trump defended the accord by highlighting record stock market gains and falling oil prices, critics argue that the timeline may leave important gaps unresolved. Some commentators have also focused on the symbolism of holding the signing ceremony at Versailles. They note that the palace is often viewed as a reminder of the challenges involved in building lasting peace after conflict. Some commentators have subtly questioned whether French President Emmanuel Macron capitalised on Trump's well-known affinity for grand, gilded architecture to stage-manage the moment. Because Versailles is historically viewed as a cautionary tale about war, peace, and unintended consequences, observers noted the deep irony of using it to celebrate a highly controversial, fast-tracked truce.

Signed in 1919 to end World War I, the Treaty of Versailles sought to establish peace but is often criticised for its harsh terms on Germany, which many historians believe contributed to the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party in the years that followed.

'Trump does not know Versailles history': Critics draw parallels between Iran deal and last century's biggest diplomatic blunder at the same palace

Former President Barack Obama said it seems like the United States has either returned to the status quo or is “worse off” now than before President Donald Trump launched the war on Iran in February. He also pointed out that “Iran had agreed not to develop nuclear weapons” under the nuclear deal negotiated during his administration, and so not much has changed after the war.&nbsp;“We’ve now fought a war, spent billions and billions of dollars, you know, put enormous strain on our military. A lot of people have died. And it feels like we’re back where we were before we started the war, except maybe a little bit worse off,” Obama said in an interview with NBC News show ‘TODAY’ aired on Friday.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/they-are-finished-they-get-no-money-not-ten-cents-trump-rejects-iran-s-claim-of-being-desperate-1781884022918">‘They are finished! They get no money, not ten cents!’: Trump rejects Iran’s claim of being desperate</a>&nbsp;“I am very happy to see a ceasefire. And I’m hopeful that it holds,” said Obama.&nbsp;The former president pointed out that “Iran had agreed not to develop nuclear weapons” under the nuclear deal negotiated during his administration.“This administration, or a prior version of this administration, pulled out of it, which caused then Iran to develop more nuclear capacity,” Obama said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-and-hezbollah-agree-to-ceasefire-starting-friday-after-latest-flare-up-says-report-citing-us-official-1781877376072">Israel and Hezbollah agree to ceasefire starting Friday after latest flare-up, says report citing US official</a>&nbsp;Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal in 2018 during his first term.&nbsp;&nbsp;The 2015 deal laid out detailed steps that Iran would have taken over more than 25 years to restrict it from obtaining or developing a nuclear weapon.Trump signed the MoU during a dinner at the Palace of Versailles on Wednesday night, setting a 60-day deadline to reach a permanent deal.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astonished-meloni-rebuffs-trump-s-g7-photo-begging-story-calls-it-completely-made-up-1781874933436">‘Astonished’ Meloni rebuffs Trump’s G7 photo ‘begging’ story, calls it ‘completely made up’</a>&nbsp;Obama said his new presidential centre is a reminder of what America was like under his leadership.“I think it’s true, and I think it’s a reminder of what America is. There’s no doubt that we are going through a period right now of disruption, polarisation,” he said, adding that he understands that people “feel as if our democracy, our civic habits and virtues, our shared understanding of how we treat each other have started to crumble.”&nbsp;“We all have the capacity to feel a civic responsibility to make sure our government works,” Obama said.

The 2015 deal negotiated during Barack Obama’s presidency had laid out detailed steps that Iran would have taken over more than 25 years to restrict it from obtaining or developing a nuclear weapon. President Donald Trump withdrew from the deal in 2018 during his first term.

Former President Barack Obama said it seems like the United States has either returned to the status quo or is “worse off” now than before President Donald Trump launched the war on Iran in February. He also pointed out that “Iran had agreed not to develop nuclear weapons” under the nuclear deal negotiated during his administration, and so not much has changed after the war. “We’ve now fought a war, spent billions and billions of dollars, you know, put enormous strain on our military. A lot of people have died. And it feels like we’re back where we were before we started the war, except maybe a little bit worse off,” Obama said in an interview with NBC News show ‘TODAY’ aired on Friday. Also Read: ‘They are finished! They get no money, not ten cents!’: Trump rejects Iran’s claim of being desperate “I am very happy to see a ceasefire. And I’m hopeful that it holds,” said Obama. The former president pointed out that “Iran had agreed not to develop nuclear weapons” under the nuclear deal negotiated during his administration. “This administration, or a prior version of this administration, pulled out of it, which caused then Iran to develop more nuclear capacity,” Obama said. Also Read: Israel and Hezbollah agree to ceasefire starting Friday after latest flare-up, says report citing US official Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal in 2018 during his first term. The 2015 deal laid out detailed steps that Iran would have taken over more than 25 years to restrict it from obtaining or developing a nuclear weapon. Trump signed the MoU during a dinner at the Palace of Versailles on Wednesday night, setting a 60-day deadline to reach a permanent deal. Also Read: ‘Astonished’ Meloni rebuffs Trump’s G7 photo ‘begging’ story, calls it ‘completely made up’ Obama said his new presidential centre is a reminder of what America was like under his leadership. “I think it’s true, and I think it’s a reminder of what America is. There’s no doubt that we are going through a period right now of disruption, polarisation,” he said, adding that he understands that people “feel as if our democracy, our civic habits and virtues, our shared understanding of how we treat each other have started to crumble.” “We all have the capacity to feel a civic responsibility to make sure our government works,” Obama said.

The 2015 deal negotiated during Barack Obama’s presidency had laid out detailed steps that Iran would have taken over more than 25 years to restrict it from obtaining or developing a nuclear weapon. President Donald Trump withdrew from the deal in 2018 during his first term.

‘Iran had agreed not to develop nuclear weapons under 2015 deal,’ says Obama, adds US ‘worse off’ after war

The guns may have fallen silent, but the political battle over the U.S.-Iran deal is only heating up. President Donald Trump has presented the agreement as proof that his pressure campaign worked, while critics argue the final outcome falls short of several promises made by Washington. Some analysts believe Iran managed to withstand sanctions, military threats and diplomatic isolation before securing a deal on terms it could accept. So, who really emerged stronger—the White House or Tehran? The answer depends on who is telling the story.


Trump Settles for Iran Deal That Falls Short of His Promises 

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has reportedly established a network of secret cells in Iraq to carry out attacks on Gulf countries hosting US military forces. The move suggests a shift in Tehran’s regional strategy as many of its traditional proxy groups face mounting pressure and declining capabilities. The development comes as the United States and Iran reached a peace deal to end the war in the Middle East and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.According to a Reuters report citing Iraqi sources, the IRGC created three to four small cells, each made up of around 10 elite Iraqi Shi’ite fighters. Operating independently of established militia groups, these units allegedly report directly to the IRGC. The report added that these groups are believed to be behind at least seven drone attacks targeting sites in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates that were launched from southern Iraq between April 20 and May 17.Reportedly, some of the members of these cells were recruited from the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella organisation of Iran-aligned armed factions. However, the new groups function outside the coalition’s command structure, helping Tehran maintain plausible deniability while reducing pressure on Iraq to dismantle larger militias.“The newer groups established by the IRGC appear smaller, more ideologically hardened and more tightly controlled, reflecting ​Iran's need to conserve resources amid economic strain,” retired Iraqi army general Jasim al-Bahadli told Reuters.While the US-Iran peace deal includes commitments to reduce military escalation, Iranian officials have insisted that Tehran’s support for regional “resistance groups” remains non-negotiable and was not part of the agreement.US officials have continued to urge Baghdad to disarm Iran-backed militias operating within its borders. Iraq’s new Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has also pledged to prevent Iraqi territory from being used to threaten regional security.According to Iraqi sources cited by Reuters, the newly formed cells targeted locations including Kuwait's Ali Al Salem Air Base, which hosts US troops. Saudi Arabia and the UAE also reportedly intercepted several drones launched from Iraq.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Report claims Iran’s IRGC created secret Iraq-based cells that allegedly launched drone attacks on Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the UAE during the conflict in the region.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has reportedly established a network of secret cells in Iraq to carry out attacks on Gulf countries hosting US military forces. The move suggests a shift in Tehran’s regional strategy as many of its traditional proxy groups face mounting pressure and declining capabilities. The development comes as the United States and Iran reached a peace deal to end the war in the Middle East and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. According to a Reuters report citing Iraqi sources, the IRGC created three to four small cells, each made up of around 10 elite Iraqi Shi’ite fighters. Operating independently of established militia groups, these units allegedly report directly to the IRGC. The report added that these groups are believed to be behind at least seven drone attacks targeting sites in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates that were launched from southern Iraq between April 20 and May 17. Reportedly, some of the members of these cells were recruited from the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella organisation of Iran-aligned armed factions. However, the new groups function outside the coalition’s command structure, helping Tehran maintain plausible deniability while reducing pressure on Iraq to dismantle larger militias. “The newer groups established by the IRGC appear smaller, more ideologically hardened and more tightly controlled, reflecting Iran's need to conserve resources amid economic strain,” retired Iraqi army general Jasim al-Bahadli told Reuters. While the US-Iran peace deal includes commitments to reduce military escalation, Iranian officials have insisted that Tehran’s support for regional “resistance groups” remains non-negotiable and was not part of the agreement. US officials have continued to urge Baghdad to disarm Iran-backed militias operating within its borders. Iraq’s new Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has also pledged to prevent Iraqi territory from being used to threaten regional security. According to Iraqi sources cited by Reuters, the newly formed cells targeted locations including Kuwait's Ali Al Salem Air Base, which hosts US troops. Saudi Arabia and the UAE also reportedly intercepted several drones launched from Iraq. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Report claims Iran’s IRGC created secret Iraq-based cells that allegedly launched drone attacks on Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the UAE during the conflict in the region.

Did Iran set up secret Iraqi cells to attack Gulf nations during war? Report reveals...

The United States and Iran have agreed to halt hostilities after 108 days of war that drove up oil prices globally. On Truth Social, US President Donald Trump confirmed the truce agreement and announced "Let the oil flow" as he revealed that the US would lift its blockade of Iranian ports. Following the announcement, in what may be the most detailed public account of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the warring nations, Iran state-affiliated Mehr News has shared the 14 conditions that form the basis of the current agreement. Among them is the condition that the US won't "interfere" in Iran's internal affairs and also withdraw its blockade that, in the past few weeks, has sought to bleed Tehran's coffers dry. Here's a breakdown of the 14-point MoU and what each condition signifies:<h2>Iran and US's 14-point MoU</h2>Citing a source close to Iran's negotiating team, Mehr News reported that the Memorandum has 14 provisions. These are:<h2>1. Permanent and immediate end to war on all fronts, including Lebanon</h2>In the past few days, Lebanon has emerged as a sticking point between the US and Iran, as Israel continued its strikes on the nation. Just a day earlier, on Sunday, Iranian chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said that there was "no point" in continuing peace talks with the United States after its ally Israel attacked Beirut's southern suburbs."The Zionists' aggression against Dahieh once again showed that the United States either lacks the will to implement its commitments or lacks the ability to do so," he said in a post on X. "If you do not have the will or the ability to fulfil your commitments, then there is no point in talking about continuing down this path," he added.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/enemy-had-no-choice-but-surrender-iran-claims-victory-as-us-agrees-to-permanently-end-war-1781482980593">'Enemy had no choice but surrender': Iran claims victory as US agrees to 'permanently' end war</a><h2>2. US commitment to non-interference in Iran's internal affairs and respect for the sovereignty of the Islamic Republic of Iran</h2>This provision appears to be centred on reports that the US was seeking a regime change in the Islamic Republic. Additionally, this preventive step may have been added to the MoU to avoid a situation similar to Venezuela, where, after triggering a regime change by capturing former president Nicolas Maduro, the US continued to be a party to the nation's internal affairs.<h2>3. Complete lifting of the naval blockade within 30 days</h2>Following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Tehran, Trump directed CENTCOM to enforce a blockade of Iranian ports. Subsequently, US troops blockaded all vessels entering or departing Iranian coastal areas and ports, aiming to cripple Iranian oil revenues and deter toll-collection. According to reports, this blockade cost Iran $6 billion in oil revenues.<h2>4. US commitment to withdraw its forces from around Iran</h2>According to reports, since the start of the ongoing conflict on February 28, the US has deployed between 50,000 and 57,000 troops to the Middle East. Additionally, &nbsp;three U.S. aircraft carriers—the USS Abraham Lincoln, USS Gerald R. Ford, and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower—anchored the regional presence, carrying tens of thousands of personnel and specialised air wings.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/let-the-oil-flow-crude-prices-down-to-81-15-as-us-iran-announce-immediate-end-to-hostilities-truce-trump-mojtaba-khamenei-1781483972835">'Let the oil flow': Crude prices down to $81.15 as US, Iran announce 'immediate end' to hostilities</a><h2>5. Reopening of the Strait of Hormuz within 30 days, under Iranian arrangements</h2>Under this, Iran is expected to retain primary operational control of the strait, through which around 1/5th of the global oil supply passes.This move is expected to help stabilise the global oil markets. Notably, just after the two nations announced that they've reached an agreement to end hostilities, oil prices tumbled by more than four per cent, reaching $81.15 a barrel.<h2>6. Suspension of sanctions on oil and petrochemical product sales and derivatives, and full Iranian access to its financial resources</h2>Already, the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Italy have said that they are prepared to lift sanctions imposed on Iran and will work "with the US, Iran and regional partners to seize this moment, maintain momentum and achieve a long-term diplomatic settlement."<h2>7. Reconstruction plans to be presented by the US and its allies, totalling at least $300 billion</h2>This fund is expected to help Tehran repair and rebuild its crippled oil export infrastructure, industrial facilities, and public utilities which were damaged during the conflict.<h2>8. A 60-day negotiation period to reach a final agreement on the nuclear issue and the complete removal of US primary and secondary sanctions, UN Security Council resolutions, and IAEA Board of Governors resolutions</h2>Iran said on Monday that it would begin negotiations with the United States within the next two months to pursue a final agreement aimed at formally ending the war between the two countries.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-ceasefire-iran-reveals-roadmap-to-final-us-agreement-and-possible-24-billion-payout-1781487819256">After ceasefire, Iran reveals roadmap to final US agreement and possible $24 billion payout</a><h2>9. Reaffirmation of Iran's NPT commitment not to produce nuclear weapons</h2>The US and Israel started the war against Iran alleging that the Islamic Republic was days away from developing a nuclear weapon. Since then, Trump has demanded that Tehran hand over its "nuclear dust".Now, Iran must explicitly recommit to never seeking, developing, or acquiring any nuclear weapons. This means that Tehran agrees to maintain its status as a non-nuclear-weapon state party to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), binding its program to international law.10. During the negotiation period, the US commits not to add forces to the region and not to impose new sanctionsThe US will have to maintain its regional force presence at current levels and will be barred from deploying any additional soldiers, ships, or aircraft to the Middle East during the talks. Furthermore, Trump cannot introduce any new economic penalties, trade restrictions, or designations against Iranian entities or sectors.<h2>11. Release of $24 billion in Iran's blocked funds during the 60-day final negotiation period, with half of that amount to be made available to Iran before negotiations begin</h2>According to Mehr News, the US would release $24 billion in frozen Iranian assets during the 60-day negotiation period. The report claims that $12 billion, half of the total amount, would be made available to Iran before formal negotiations begin.<h2>12. Establishment of a monitoring mechanism to implement the agreement</h2>The safeguard has been put in place to ensure that both sides honour their commitment. During the conflict, both the US and Iran have accused each other of flouting their commitments.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-delays-ali-khamenei-funeral-when-will-the-slain-supreme-leader-be-laid-to-rest-1781227414587">Iran again delays Ali Khamenei's funeral: Why the slain supreme leader remains unburied after 100 days</a><h2>13. The final agreement to be ratified by a UN Security Council resolution</h2>The final step to codify the MoU is its formal ratification through a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution, which will elevate the bilateral deal into binding international law.<h2>14. Final negotiations will not begin until half of Iran's blocked funds are released, oil sanctions are suspended, and the naval blockade is lifted. The final agreement will address only the fate of enriched materials and enrichment, sanctions relief, and Iran's economic reconstruction programme. Talks on Iran's missile programme and its support for Resistance groups have been definitively removed from the agenda</h2>Finally, according to Mehr News, Iran would not participate in any negotiations till the US releases $12 billion of Iran's frozen funds, lifts oil sanctions and lifts its naval blockade.Notably, as per the report, these provisions are only preliminary and still require "review and finalisation by the relevant institutions in Iran."

Iranian media has published details of a reported 14-point US-Iran memorandum that halted 108 days of conflict. The agreement includes sanctions relief, a $24 billion asset release, reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, nuclear negotiations and a phased end to hostilities. All you need to know.

The United States and Iran have agreed to halt hostilities after 108 days of war that drove up oil prices globally. On Truth Social, US President Donald Trump confirmed the truce agreement and announced "Let the oil flow" as he revealed that the US would lift its blockade of Iranian ports. Following the announcement, in what may be the most detailed public account of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the warring nations, Iran state-affiliated Mehr News has shared the 14 conditions that form the basis of the current agreement. Among them is the condition that the US won't "interfere" in Iran's internal affairs and also withdraw its blockade that, in the past few weeks, has sought to bleed Tehran's coffers dry. Here's a breakdown of the 14-point MoU and what each condition signifies: Iran and US's 14-point MoU Citing a source close to Iran's negotiating team, Mehr News reported that the Memorandum has 14 provisions. These are: 1. Permanent and immediate end to war on all fronts, including Lebanon In the past few days, Lebanon has emerged as a sticking point between the US and Iran, as Israel continued its strikes on the nation. Just a day earlier, on Sunday, Iranian chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said that there was "no point" in continuing peace talks with the United States after its ally Israel attacked Beirut's southern suburbs. "The Zionists' aggression against Dahieh once again showed that the United States either lacks the will to implement its commitments or lacks the ability to do so," he said in a post on X. "If you do not have the will or the ability to fulfil your commitments, then there is no point in talking about continuing down this path," he added. Also read | 'Enemy had no choice but surrender': Iran claims victory as US agrees to 'permanently' end war 2. US commitment to non-interference in Iran's internal affairs and respect for the sovereignty of the Islamic Republic of Iran This provision appears to be centred on reports that the US was seeking a regime change in the Islamic Republic. Additionally, this preventive step may have been added to the MoU to avoid a situation similar to Venezuela, where, after triggering a regime change by capturing former president Nicolas Maduro, the US continued to be a party to the nation's internal affairs. 3. Complete lifting of the naval blockade within 30 days Following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Tehran, Trump directed CENTCOM to enforce a blockade of Iranian ports. Subsequently, US troops blockaded all vessels entering or departing Iranian coastal areas and ports, aiming to cripple Iranian oil revenues and deter toll-collection. According to reports, this blockade cost Iran $6 billion in oil revenues. 4. US commitment to withdraw its forces from around Iran According to reports, since the start of the ongoing conflict on February 28, the US has deployed between 50,000 and 57,000 troops to the Middle East. Additionally, three U.S. aircraft carriers—the USS Abraham Lincoln, USS Gerald R. Ford, and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower—anchored the regional presence, carrying tens of thousands of personnel and specialised air wings. Also read | 'Let the oil flow': Crude prices down to $81.15 as US, Iran announce 'immediate end' to hostilities 5. Reopening of the Strait of Hormuz within 30 days, under Iranian arrangements Under this, Iran is expected to retain primary operational control of the strait, through which around 1/5th of the global oil supply passes. This move is expected to help stabilise the global oil markets. Notably, just after the two nations announced that they've reached an agreement to end hostilities, oil prices tumbled by more than four per cent, reaching $81.15 a barrel. 6. Suspension of sanctions on oil and petrochemical product sales and derivatives, and full Iranian access to its financial resources Already, the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Italy have said that they are prepared to lift sanctions imposed on Iran and will work "with the US, Iran and regional partners to seize this moment, maintain momentum and achieve a long-term diplomatic settlement." 7. Reconstruction plans to be presented by the US and its allies, totalling at least $300 billion This fund is expected to help Tehran repair and rebuild its crippled oil export infrastructure, industrial facilities, and public utilities which were damaged during the conflict. 8. A 60-day negotiation period to reach a final agreement on the nuclear issue and the complete removal of US primary and secondary sanctions, UN Security Council resolutions, and IAEA Board of Governors resolutions Iran said on Monday that it would begin negotiations with the United States within the next two months to pursue a final agreement aimed at formally ending the war between the two countries. Also read | After ceasefire, Iran reveals roadmap to final US agreement and possible $24 billion payout 9. Reaffirmation of Iran's NPT commitment not to produce nuclear weapons The US and Israel started the war against Iran alleging that the Islamic Republic was days away from developing a nuclear weapon. Since then, Trump has demanded that Tehran hand over its "nuclear dust". Now, Iran must explicitly recommit to never seeking, developing, or acquiring any nuclear weapons. This means that Tehran agrees to maintain its status as a non-nuclear-weapon state party to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), binding its program to international law. 10. During the negotiation period, the US commits not to add forces to the region and not to impose new sanctions The US will have to maintain its regional force presence at current levels and will be barred from deploying any additional soldiers, ships, or aircraft to the Middle East during the talks. Furthermore, Trump cannot introduce any new economic penalties, trade restrictions, or designations against Iranian entities or sectors. 11. Release of $24 billion in Iran's blocked funds during the 60-day final negotiation period, with half of that amount to be made available to Iran before negotiations begin According to Mehr News, the US would release $24 billion in frozen Iranian assets during the 60-day negotiation period. The report claims that $12 billion, half of the total amount, would be made available to Iran before formal negotiations begin. 12. Establishment of a monitoring mechanism to implement the agreement The safeguard has been put in place to ensure that both sides honour their commitment. During the conflict, both the US and Iran have accused each other of flouting their commitments. Also read | Iran again delays Ali Khamenei's funeral: Why the slain supreme leader remains unburied after 100 days 13. The final agreement to be ratified by a UN Security Council resolution The final step to codify the MoU is its formal ratification through a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution, which will elevate the bilateral deal into binding international law. 14. Final negotiations will not begin until half of Iran's blocked funds are released, oil sanctions are suspended, and the naval blockade is lifted. The final agreement will address only the fate of enriched materials and enrichment, sanctions relief, and Iran's economic reconstruction programme. Talks on Iran's missile programme and its support for Resistance groups have been definitively removed from the agenda Finally, according to Mehr News, Iran would not participate in any negotiations till the US releases $12 billion of Iran's frozen funds, lifts oil sanctions and lifts its naval blockade. Notably, as per the report, these provisions are only preliminary and still require "review and finalisation by the relevant institutions in Iran."

Iranian media has published details of a reported 14-point US-Iran memorandum that halted 108 days of conflict. The agreement includes sanctions relief, a $24 billion asset release, reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, nuclear negotiations and a phased end to hostilities. All you need to know.

US-Iran peace deal: Inside the 14-point MoU that ended over 108 days of war | WION Decodes

US Vice President JD Vance has said that Israel “cannot kill its way out” of its long-standing security challenges, stressing the need for a broader diplomatic approach. His remarks come as he defends the US-backed memorandum of understanding aimed at reducing tensions with Iran and ending the prolonged conflict dynamics in the region.


White House Briefing: JD Vance Defends US-Iran Deal Amid Israel Criticism 

The U.S.-Iran peace framework is facing growing domestic scrutiny in Washington, raising questions over whether the deal signals a diplomatic breakthrough or a political setback for President Donald Trump. Critics argue the agreement lacks clarity and accountability, while supporters claim it could reshape Middle East stability for decades. Meanwhile, Vice President J.D. Vance has emphasized that Iran must demonstrate a long-term commitment for the deal to hold. The debate is intensifying in the U.S. political landscape as lawmakers, analysts, and foreign policy experts weigh the implications of the agreement on regional security, energy markets, and America’s global influence.


US President Trump's Approval Ratings Witness a Quick Surge

The United States and Iran are to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU), ending weeks of war and starting 60 days of negotiations, in the Swiss city of Geneva on Friday.

The event will be hosted by Pakistan, which has played a key role in mediating between the two adversaries since the war began with US-Israeli strikes on Tehran on February 28.

Iran, US Due to Sign Peace Deal in Geneva on Friday, Iran: Lebanon Most Important Part of Deal

Fresh differences have emerged between Washington and Tehran over the future of Iran's nuclear programme, even as both sides prepare for negotiations aimed at turning their newly announced ceasefire into a broader peace agreement. US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jun 15) in a Truth Social post insisted that Iran "has agreed to never have a Nuclear Weapon!" while dismissing reports that the United States would provide Tehran with hundreds of billions of dollars in economic assistance.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-claims-strait-of-hormuz-will-be-toll-free-iran-says-ships-will-pay-maritime-service-fees-what-s-really-in-the-peace-deal-1781573888112">US claims Strait of Hormuz will be toll-free. Iran says ships will pay maritime service fees. What's really in the peace deal?</a><h2>Iran's nuclear future: According to the US</h2>"Iran has agreed to never have a Nuclear Weapon!" Trump wrote on social media, while also rejecting claims that Washington would pay Iran $300 billion under the deal.The comments came as Vice President JD Vance on NBC claimed that American and international nuclear inspectors would be allowed to return to Iran and oversee the dismantling of the country's stockpiles of enriched uranium.In a separate statement, Trump also told The New York Times that negotiations were continuing over how long Iran would suspend uranium enrichment, suggesting a potential arrangement lasting between 15 and 20 years.Tehran, however, signalled that the issue remains unresolved.<h2>Tehran rejects Trump's claims on Iran's nuclear future</h2>Speaking at a regular press briefing on Monday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei rejected Trump's claims on the recent peace agreement and pushed back against suggestions that Iran had already accepted limits on its uranium stockpiles.According to Baghaei, the memorandum of understanding signed this week serves only as a framework for future negotiations and does not contain detailed provisions on Iran's nuclear programme.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-ceasefire-iran-reveals-roadmap-to-final-us-agreement-and-possible-24-billion-payout-1781487819256">After ceasefire, Iran reveals roadmap to final US agreement and possible $24 billion payout</a>He said discussions over sanctions relief, uranium enrichment and the fate of Iran's highly enriched uranium reserves would take place during the 60 days of technical talks that is now set to begin.Baghaei also referred to what he described as a failed US operation during the war to seize Iranian uranium stockpiles, arguing that Washington would be unwise to attempt a similar action again.<h2>France wants Iran's enriched uranium gone</h2>French President Emmanuel Macron in a statement said Iran's enriched uranium stockpiles should ultimately be neutralised and placed under international supervision.Speaking after the announcement of the US-Iran deal, Macron said the material should either be removed from Iran or diluted, before being monitored by the International Atomic Energy Agency. "We will ensure that the enriched uranium capabilities that remain are properly neutralised," Macron said.&nbsp;

A day after announcing a ceasefire, Washington and Tehran are already at odds over Iran's nuclear future. Donald Trump says Iran has agreed never to build a nuclear weapon, while Tehran insists uranium enrichment and stockpile issues remain subject to future negotiations. All you need to know

Fresh differences have emerged between Washington and Tehran over the future of Iran's nuclear programme, even as both sides prepare for negotiations aimed at turning their newly announced ceasefire into a broader peace agreement. US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jun 15) in a Truth Social post insisted that Iran "has agreed to never have a Nuclear Weapon!" while dismissing reports that the United States would provide Tehran with hundreds of billions of dollars in economic assistance. Also read | US claims Strait of Hormuz will be toll-free. Iran says ships will pay maritime service fees. What's really in the peace deal? Iran's nuclear future: According to the US "Iran has agreed to never have a Nuclear Weapon!" Trump wrote on social media, while also rejecting claims that Washington would pay Iran $300 billion under the deal. The comments came as Vice President JD Vance on NBC claimed that American and international nuclear inspectors would be allowed to return to Iran and oversee the dismantling of the country's stockpiles of enriched uranium. In a separate statement, Trump also told The New York Times that negotiations were continuing over how long Iran would suspend uranium enrichment, suggesting a potential arrangement lasting between 15 and 20 years. Tehran, however, signalled that the issue remains unresolved. Tehran rejects Trump's claims on Iran's nuclear future Speaking at a regular press briefing on Monday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei rejected Trump's claims on the recent peace agreement and pushed back against suggestions that Iran had already accepted limits on its uranium stockpiles. According to Baghaei, the memorandum of understanding signed this week serves only as a framework for future negotiations and does not contain detailed provisions on Iran's nuclear programme. Also read | After ceasefire, Iran reveals roadmap to final US agreement and possible $24 billion payout He said discussions over sanctions relief, uranium enrichment and the fate of Iran's highly enriched uranium reserves would take place during the 60 days of technical talks that is now set to begin. Baghaei also referred to what he described as a failed US operation during the war to seize Iranian uranium stockpiles, arguing that Washington would be unwise to attempt a similar action again. France wants Iran's enriched uranium gone French President Emmanuel Macron in a statement said Iran's enriched uranium stockpiles should ultimately be neutralised and placed under international supervision. Speaking after the announcement of the US-Iran deal, Macron said the material should either be removed from Iran or diluted, before being monitored by the International Atomic Energy Agency. "We will ensure that the enriched uranium capabilities that remain are properly neutralised," Macron said.

A day after announcing a ceasefire, Washington and Tehran are already at odds over Iran's nuclear future. Donald Trump says Iran has agreed never to build a nuclear weapon, while Tehran insists uranium enrichment and stockpile issues remain subject to future negotiations. All you need to know

Did Iran agree to 'never have a Nuclear Weapon'? Trump's claim and Tehran's counterclaim spark fresh confusion after truce announcement

US President Donald Trump has claimed that a peace deal between the United States and Iran has already been signed, marking a major step toward ending months of conflict.
According to U.S. officials, the agreement was digitally endorsed by leaders from both sides, with a formal signing ceremony expected in Switzerland on June 19.

US-Iran War: Trump's Big Claim, Says' Peace Deal Has Already Been Signed'

A day after the United States and Iran announced a peace agreement to end the hostilities that have already lasted over 100 days, fresh questions have emerged over the terms. On one hand, Washington insists that ships would pass through the Strait of Hormuz toll-free; on the other, Iranian media reported that Tehran had secured the right to charge maritime service fees. What's happening in Hormuz? Here's what we know.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-peace-deal-inside-the-14-point-mou-that-ended-over-108-days-of-war-wion-decodes-donald-trump-mojtaba-khamenei-benjamin-netanyahu-lebanon-1781513800001">US-Iran peace deal: Inside the 14-point MoU that ended over 108 days of war | WION Decodes</a><h2>Terms of US-Iran peace agreement unclear</h2>The disagreement highlights the lack of clarity surrounding the memorandum of understanding signed electronically on Sunday by US President Donald Trump, US Vice President JD Vance and Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.The Monday (Jun 15) agreement brought an immediate halt to nearly four months of conflict and opened a 60-day window for negotiations aimed at reaching a broader peace settlement.<h2>US insists toll-free passage will happen</h2>Speaking to reporters, senior Trump administration officials said the deal guarantees toll-free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, the strategic waterway through which roughly one-fifth of the world's oil supply passes.Vance also said that there was an understanding with Iran that the strait would remain open "in a toll-free way for the long term." However, he added that this was the "sort of thing that we're going to figure out in these technical negotiations."Meanwhile, according to an AFP report, US officials have expressed confidence that shipping traffic could return to pre-war levels within weeks. Iran, however, has offered a different interpretation.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/enemy-had-no-choice-but-surrender-iran-claims-victory-as-us-agrees-to-permanently-end-war-1781482980593">'Enemy had no choice but surrender': Iran claims victory as US agrees to 'permanently' end war</a><h2>Iran silently adds Hormuz maritime fees in final hours before deal</h2>According to Iran's Fars News Agency, negotiators amended the memorandum at the last moment to explicitly recognise Iranian and Omani sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz. Citing an unnamed source, the agency reported that Tehran would be permitted to charge maritime service fees to vessels using the route."The use of the term 'maritime services' means that the United States has accepted that fees will be paid to Iran," the source told Fars.The apparent contradiction is only one of several unresolved questions surrounding the agreement. Details of the memorandum have not yet been released publicly, with both sides suggesting that the text could be published later this week.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Fresh uncertainty has emerged over the US-Iran peace agreement after Washington said passage through the Strait of Hormuz would remain toll-free, while Iranian media reported that Tehran secured the right to charge maritime service fees. All we know.

A day after the United States and Iran announced a peace agreement to end the hostilities that have already lasted over 100 days, fresh questions have emerged over the terms. On one hand, Washington insists that ships would pass through the Strait of Hormuz toll-free; on the other, Iranian media reported that Tehran had secured the right to charge maritime service fees. What's happening in Hormuz? Here's what we know. Also read | US-Iran peace deal: Inside the 14-point MoU that ended over 108 days of war | WION Decodes Terms of US-Iran peace agreement unclear The disagreement highlights the lack of clarity surrounding the memorandum of understanding signed electronically on Sunday by US President Donald Trump, US Vice President JD Vance and Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. The Monday (Jun 15) agreement brought an immediate halt to nearly four months of conflict and opened a 60-day window for negotiations aimed at reaching a broader peace settlement. US insists toll-free passage will happen Speaking to reporters, senior Trump administration officials said the deal guarantees toll-free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, the strategic waterway through which roughly one-fifth of the world's oil supply passes. Vance also said that there was an understanding with Iran that the strait would remain open "in a toll-free way for the long term." However, he added that this was the "sort of thing that we're going to figure out in these technical negotiations." Meanwhile, according to an AFP report, US officials have expressed confidence that shipping traffic could return to pre-war levels within weeks. Iran, however, has offered a different interpretation. Also read | 'Enemy had no choice but surrender': Iran claims victory as US agrees to 'permanently' end war Iran silently adds Hormuz maritime fees in final hours before deal According to Iran's Fars News Agency, negotiators amended the memorandum at the last moment to explicitly recognise Iranian and Omani sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz. Citing an unnamed source, the agency reported that Tehran would be permitted to charge maritime service fees to vessels using the route. "The use of the term 'maritime services' means that the United States has accepted that fees will be paid to Iran," the source told Fars. The apparent contradiction is only one of several unresolved questions surrounding the agreement. Details of the memorandum have not yet been released publicly, with both sides suggesting that the text could be published later this week. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Fresh uncertainty has emerged over the US-Iran peace agreement after Washington said passage through the Strait of Hormuz would remain toll-free, while Iranian media reported that Tehran secured the right to charge maritime service fees. All we know.

US claims Strait of Hormuz will be toll-free. Iran says ships will pay maritime service fees. What's really in the peace deal?

#Gravitas A tentative peace agreement between the United States and Iran has sparked a broad rally across global financial markets. Investors welcomed reports that the deal would keep the strategic Strait of Hormuz open, reducing fears of a prolonged disruption to global energy supplies.


US-Iran Peace Deal: Global Stocks Rally on Peace Breakthrough

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