United States and Iran sign memorandum of understanding to end military conflict
On June 17, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signed an interim memorandum of understanding to end the war that began on February 28, 2026. The agreement mandates a 60-day ceasefire period to negotiate a final settlement, with potential extensions. Key provisions include the lifting of the U.S. naval blockade on Iran within 30 days and a commitment from the U.S. to create an economic recovery plan for Iran worth at least $300 billion. Iran has committed to refraining from developing nuclear weapons and ensuring the safe transit of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz for 60 days without tolls. While the U.S. administration frames the deal as a victory, critics in both the U.S. and among international observers note that the agreement does not definitively resolve the status of Iran's nuclear program or its ballistic missile capabilities. Preliminary technical talks are scheduled to take place in Bürgenstock, Switzerland, with the mediation of Pakistan and Qatar. Commercial shipping has already resumed through the Strait of Hormuz, with reports indicating several oil tankers have passed.