In a decisive move marked by the signing of a memorandum of understanding, the United States announced the removal of its naval blockade on Iran, a key component of a broader ceasefire agreement endorsed by both nations.
The blockade lifting came on the back of assurances that the deal was understood. US Central Command confirmed that enforcement ceased “in accordance with the President's direction.”
Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, who had remained largely silent since taking office in March following a tragic attack on his family, publicly criticized the agreement. He asserted that the deal was a result of Trump “using all kinds of leverage to bring this about” and that he had initially disagreed but granted it approval after assurances from President Masoud Pezeshkian.
Khamenei’s statements were the first time he addressed the pact publicly. He added that while future in‑person negotiations would occur between Tehran and Washington, “this will not mean acceptance of the enemy's position.”
Vice‑President John D. Vance defended the US approach, emphasizing that sanctions relief will only follow full compliance with the memorandum’s obligations, including Iran’s commitment to dismantle its enriched‑uranium stockpile and curtail support for regional proxy groups.
The MoU outlines 14 core points: stopping conflict on all fronts, terminating the blockade, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring Iran remains non‑military‑nuclear, and proposing a $300 billion fund for reconstruction—though the US is not obliged to contribute.
Despite the accord, clashes persist. Israeli forces and Hezbollah have continued strikes in Lebanon, underscoring that the Iran‑US deal does not automatically settle the broader regional tensions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underscored the need for close ties with the United States, labeling Washington’s support as “shoulder to shoulder.”
Vance responded to Israeli critics, stressing that Israel’s cabinet members—specifically national security minister Itamar Ben Gvir and finance minister Bezalel Smotrich—should not undermine the sole powerful ally. He urged them to define concrete proposals, noting that “you cannot simply kill your way out of solving every single national security problem.”
The agreement remains in effect, guiding a 60‑day period of further negotiations, with potential technical talks slated for Switzerland. Both US and Iranian representatives are expected to meet later to solidify the next steps of the ceasefire.
