US lifts naval blockade as Iran's supreme leader says Trump made deal 'out of desperation'

June 19, 2026

The United States and Iran have signed a deal ending their military conflict in the Middle East, prompting the US to lift its naval blockade of Iran. The 14-point agreement includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons, establishing a $300 billion reconstruction fund for Iran, and requiring both nations to finalize a comprehensive deal within 60 days. Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei reluctantly approved the agreement despite personal reservations, while President Trump expects regional ceasefires including between Israel and Hezbollah.

Who is affected

The United States and Iran (primary parties to the deal)
Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian
President Trump and Vice-President JD Vance
Republican critics, including Senator Bill Cassidy
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his cabinet members (Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich)
Hezbollah in Lebanon
Three people killed in recent strikes in Lebanon
Pakistan (serving as mediator)
Countries in the Middle East region expected to support the negotiations

What action is being taken

The US is dropping its naval blockade of Iran
Some US vessels are remaining in the general area
US and Iranian representatives are expected to meet in Switzerland for further talks
Israel and Hezbollah are carrying out strikes against each other, including strikes in Lebanon
The 60-day period for further technical negotiations has begun

Why it matters

This deal represents a significant shift in Middle East geopolitics, potentially ending a major regional conflict sparked by the February US-Israeli strikes that killed Iran's previous Supreme Leader. The agreement addresses critical issues including freedom of navigation through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, Iran's nuclear ambitions, and regional reconstruction. However, its success remains uncertain given domestic opposition in both the US and Israel, ongoing Israeli-Hezbollah fighting despite ceasefire expectations, and Iran's stated reluctance to accept what it views as enemy positions. The deal's requirement for a final agreement within 60 days creates significant pressure for diplomatic progress while risking collapse if commitments aren't met.

What's next

Final deal must be achieved within a maximum of 60 days (potentially extendable with mutual consent)
In-person negotiations between Tehran and Washington will occur
US and Iranian representatives will meet in Switzerland for technical talks
Vice-President JD Vance will likely head to Switzerland for technical negotiations (timing to be determined)
Ceasefire expected to take effect on all fronts, including between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon
Iran must meet obligations including destroying enriched uranium stockpiles and ceasing funding of proxy groups to receive sanctions relief

Read full article from source: BBC