Deal Finalized to End U.S.-Iran War

President Donald Trump announced on Sunday night that a deal has been finalized, potentially bringing a close to the 15-week conflict between the United States and Iran.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “The agreement with the Islamic Republic of Iran has been completed. Congratulations, everyone! I hereby fully authorize the free opening of the Strait of Hormuz and the immediate lifting of the U.S. naval blockade. Ships of the world, start your engines. Let the oil flow!”

He later added that this “great deal will bring peace and security to the entire region.”

This memorandum was confirmed by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, acting as a mediator with Iranian officials. He reported that both sides have mutually agreed to an immediate and permanent suspension of military operations in various locations, including Lebanon. The formal signing of the deal is scheduled to take place in Switzerland on June 19. Sharif expressed gratitude towards both the U.S. and Iran for their diplomatic efforts.

The news was welcomed by Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, who expressed hope that the deal could lead to practical steps to definitively end the ongoing cycle of violence.

However, there seems to be skepticism from some leaders, particularly in Israel. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich quickly denounced the agreement, labeling it as harmful to both Israel and the wider free world. He emphasized that Israel should continue its campaign against the regime in creative ways.

Similarly, Israel’s Minister of National Security, Itamar Ben Gvir, voiced concerns over the safety of the country. He insisted that Israel should not consider anything short of dismantling Hezbollah as a valid outcome of the negotiations.

Recent tensions had threatened to derail the peace deal, especially following alleged attacks involving Hezbollah, which nearly prompted a collapse of the negotiations. Reports also indicated that Trump’s administration was eager to salvage the deal, particularly after an unexpected airstrike from Israel had occurred just before the signing was supposed to take place.

Following the airstrike, President Trump expressed his shock and discontent, particularly criticizing Prime Minister Netanyahu for the attack, which he deemed unwarranted. Trump remarked, “Why did Bibi have to make such a terrible attack? I’m so angry.”

This criticism is consistent with Trump’s previous remarks about Netanyahu, indicating ongoing frustrations in their relationship. Trump mentioned that Netanyahu should appreciate U.S. efforts in curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions for Israel’s continued existence.

While Netanyahu has not publicly commented on the deal, Israeli officials have communicated that Israel will not withdraw from Lebanon.