The US has lifted its naval blockade on Iran, capping a tumultuous month in Middle Eastern diplomacy. The move is the latest development in a complex agreement brokered by Pakistan between Washington and Tehran. As one of the world's most strategic waterways, the Strait of Hormuz – which was at the centre of the dispute – will once again be open to international shipping.
Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has publicly endorsed the deal, stating that it protects Iran's rights despite holding reservations. He claimed that US President Donald Trump acted "out of desperation" in securing the agreement and that future in-person talks between Tehran and Washington would not amount to accepting the enemy's position.
The comprehensive US-Iran agreement includes 14 core points, with key elements including the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a stipulation that Iran will never possess nuclear weapons, and a $300 billion (£227 billion) fund for Iran's reconstruction and economic development. Crucially, this fund is not contingent on US contributions, and both sides have agreed to negotiate within a 60-day timeframe.
US Vice-President JD Vance confirmed the deal's immediate effect, triggering the 60-day negotiation period, and indicated his probable attendance at upcoming technical negotiations in Switzerland. However, the official signing ceremony initially planned for Switzerland was cancelled due to remote signing of the agreement by US and Iranian representatives. The logistics of travel restrictions on Iranian officials are likely to pose further challenges.
The deal has sparked controversy in the US, with some Republicans criticising its terms. Senator Bill Cassidy described it as "the worst foreign policy blunder in decades," arguing that Iran's nuclear ambitions were not curbed and that they have learned to threaten key shipping lanes.