The United States has lifted its naval blockade of Iran after the two nations signed a ceasefire memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at ending hostilities in the Middle East, U.S. Central Command announced on the social media platform X.
The blockade – which had restricted maritime traffic in key shipping lanes – is now inactive according to a statement that said the move followed the President’s directive.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, speaking to Iranian state television, said he originally disagreed with the MoU but eventually allowed the agreement to proceed after assurances from President Masoud Pezeshkian. He further criticised former President Donald Trump for “using all kinds of leverage to bring this about out of desperation”.
The MoU details an immediate halt to military operations on all fronts, a reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and conditions for sanctions relief. Iran will receive benefits only after proving full compliance, such as eliminating its stockpile of enriched uranium and stopping financing of regional proxy groups.
U.S. Vice‑President John D. Vance defended the deal at a White House briefing, stating that it had taken effect and that a 60‑day negotiation window would follow. He added that the U.S. might soon travel to Switzerland for further technical talks, noting that “Iran is not an easy country”.
The agenda for the MoU consists of fourteen core points, including a cessation of all conflict, full ceasefire on all fronts, reopening of shipping routes, a pledge that Iran will not develop a nuclear weapon, and a $300 billion fund earmarked for reconstruction and economic development – though the U.S. is not required to contribute.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the pact, emphasizing Washington’s support in the just‑won war against Iran, while members of his cabinet, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, publicly criticised the agreement as a concession.
Despite the MoU, hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah have persisted, with clashes in Lebanon reported after the announcement. While Israel argues the conflict with Hezbollah is distinct from its war against Iran, Hezbollah remains opposed to the terms agreed between Iran and the U.S.
