PM Sharif postpones Switzerland visit as Iran-US deal enters implementation

This live blog follows the latest developments across the Middle East crisis, including regional diplomacy, maritime security, ceasefire negotiations, and economic fallout.

Catch up: Yesterday’s top developments

US military says accord being implemented

Published: June 18, 2026 | 18:06 GMT | by Web Desk

The United States on Thursday lifted its naval blockade of Iranian ports, marking one of the first major implementation steps under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding.

“Today, U.S. forces lifted the blockade on all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports and coastal areas,” US Central Command said in a post on X.

CENTCOM said American warships would remain deployed in the region to monitor compliance with the agreement.

The military added that US naval forces “will remain in the general area to make sure that all aspects of the agreement are adhered to.”

The blockade had been in place for more than two months, restricting maritime traffic linked to Iran as tensions between Washington and Tehran escalated during the conflict.

Trump rejects criticism of accord

Published: June 18, 2026 | 18:00 GMT | by Web Desk

US President Donald Trump on Thursday defended the agreement with Iran, describing it as a victory for the United States and dismissing criticism from political opponents and skeptics of the deal.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump rejected claims that Washington had agreed to provide financial concessions to Tehran as part of the agreement.

“There is no 300 Billion Dollar payment to Iran by the U.S. That's Fake News!” Trump wrote.

“All there is for the U.S. is Success, Lower Oil Prices, and Victory. Check out the Stock Market,” he added, arguing that the agreement would strengthen regional stability while benefiting the American economy.

Israel must respect Iran peace process: Vance

Published: June 18, 2026 | 17:00 GMT | by Web Desk

US Vice President JD Vance said Thursday that Israel must respect the peace process between Iran and the United States, describing the agreement as beneficial for regional stability as the implementation phase of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding formally began.

“Israel will have to respect the peace process with Iran,” Vance told reporters at the White House, adding that the agreement was “good for them.”

He also criticized attacks in Beirut that result in civilian casualties, saying such actions were “not acceptable.”

Vance said the 60-day period outlined in the memorandum officially began on Thursday.

“I would say the 60-day period officially started today,” he said, adding that negotiators would now focus on unresolved issues, including future arrangements for the Strait of Hormuz after Iran reopened the strategic waterway under the agreement.

The vice president also indicated that technical-level negotiations could begin in Switzerland in the coming days.

“Our plan is to go to Switzerland. I don't know exactly when,” Vance said. “We think these technical negotiations are this weekend.”

"That's still the plan, but that could change because it's not an easy country, Iran, to get out of.”

He added: “I suspect this weekend, but I'm not sure.”

Vance said the talks would focus on the practical implementation of the agreement, including nuclear issues.

“You're going to have people on the ground actually driving the technical talks, the nuclear talks, how do you destroy this highly enriched uranium, all that stuff that you really just have to get into the nitty-gritty on,” he said.

The vice president said the United States had already begun implementing parts of the deal, allowing more than a dozen ships to access Iranian ports after lifting its naval blockade.

He added that 12.5 million barrels of oil had already passed through the Strait of Hormuz and noted that “Iran did not shoot at any ships overnight.”

Pezeshkian lauds PM Sharif, CDF Munir mediation

Published: June 18, 2026 | 14:42 GMT | by Web Desk

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defense Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir for their pivotal role in facilitating the mediation efforts that culminated in the landmark Islamabad Peace Deal.

According to a statement issued by Pakistan's Prime Minister's Office (PMO) on Thursday, President Pezeshkian commended both leaders for their “extremely critical roles” in steering the mediation process with “great skill and sincerity,” helping secure a successful outcome.

During a telephone conversation lasting more than 30 minutes, PM Sharif congratulated President Pezeshkian, the Iranian leadership, and the people of Iran on the signing of the historic peace agreement.

He described the deal as a significant step toward restoring regional stability and fostering Iran’s national reconstruction, while also opening new avenues for stronger Pakistan-Iran cooperation across areas of mutual interest.

The call marked the first direct contact between the two leaders since the signing of the Islamabad Peace Deal.

The prime minister also conveyed his respects and best wishes to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Sayyid Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to supporting Iran as it moves into the next phase of negotiations.

Welcoming Iran’s decision to sign the agreement, PM Sharif expressed confidence that the peace process would yield lasting benefits for the region and reiterated Pakistan’s continued support for Iran in diplomatic, economic, and regional affairs.

President Pezeshkian, speaking on behalf of both the Iranian nation and himself, thanked Pakistan’s leadership for its constructive engagement throughout the mediation process.

He noted that Iran would always remember Pakistan’s positive role and steadfast support during a challenging period.

Both leaders also agreed to exchange visits at the earliest opportunity to further strengthen bilateral ties and expand cooperation on regional issues.

They pledged to remain in close contact in the coming days as the peace process moves forward.

Technical talks to proceed separately

Published: June 18, 2026 | 14:40 GMT | by Web Desk

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's planned visit to Switzerland has been postponed after the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the United States and Iran was electronically signed and entered into force, diplomatic and Prime Minister's Office sources said.

The development has reduced the need for the previously planned commemorative event in Bürgenstock, Switzerland.

Officials said the focus has now shifted from signing the agreement to implementing its provisions.

The MoU was electronically signed by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and subsequently endorsed by PM Sharif in his capacity as mediator.

According to diplomatic sources, the United States and Iran will now hold separate technical-level talks on multiple issues covered under the agreement.

These discussions are expected to address implementation mechanisms and the next phase of commitments agreed by both sides under the Islamabad MoU.

Qatar says US-Iran deal 'solid foundation' for next round of talks

Published: June 18, 2026 | 13:04 GMT | by AFP

Qatar, a key negotiator in the deal to end the war between the US and Iran, said the agreement served as a firm basis for further talks.

The Gulf state's foreign ministry said in a statement that the deal "represents a solid foundation for advancing to the next stage of negotiations between the American and Iranian parties," ahead of technical talks expected in Switzerland on Friday.

Iran president touts 'historic' deal with US ending war

Published: June 18, 2026 | 11:13 GMT | by AFP

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian welcomed on Thursday what he called a "historic" deal with the United States to end their war and pave the way for negotiations towards a final settlement.

"This is a historic document and a message from a powerful Iran: peace will be achieved in the shadow of mutual respect," Pezeshkian said, in a social media post showing an image of the document, which carried his signature as well as US President Donald Trump and their mediator, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Bahrain FM congratulates Pakistan counterpart on signing of Islamabad MoU

Published: June 18, 2026 | 10:53 GMT | by Web Desk

Bahrain Foreign Minister Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani congratulated his Pakistani counterpart Ishaq Dar on the signing of Islamabad MoU between US and Iran, said a post shared on X by Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday.

The post stated: "The Bahraini FM congratulated DPM/FM on the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Iran, with Pakistan as witness."

"He also lauded Pakistan’s constructive mediation role in facilitating the understanding reached between the two sides," the post said.

"Both leaders felicitated each other on this important milestone and expressed hope that it would contribute to lasting peace and stability in the region," the post added.

"They reaffirmed the strong brotherly ties between Pakistan and Bahrain and underscored the importance of continued high-level engagement and close cooperation between the two countries," it said.

French LNG tanker leaves Gulf through Strait of Hormuz: MarineTraffic

Published: June 18, 2026 | 10:01 GMT | by AFP

French LNG tanker leaves Gulf through Strait of Hormuz, AFP reported citing MarineTraffic.

Trump says 'fools' who criticize Iran deal are 'jealous, bad people, or stupid'

Published: June 18, 2026 | 10:00 GMT | by AFP

US President Donald Trump said Thursday that "fools" who said his deal to end the Middle East war was not "tough enough on Iran" were "jealous, bad people, or stupid."

Israel FM says cutting contact with EU top diplomat over 'apartheid' remarks

Published: June 18, 2026 | 09:55 GMT | by AFP

Israel's foreign minister said Thursday that he was severing all contact with the European Union's top diplomat Kaja Kallas over reported remarks in which she allegedly compared Israel to the apartheid regime that once ruled South Africa.

"Recently, it was published that during her visit to Mexico, she compared Israel to the racist apartheid regime that existed in South Africa," Gideon Saar wrote on X.

"Therefore, as the foreign minister of the State of Israel, I have no choice but to sever all contact with Ms Kallas until she retracts the blood libel she directed at the world's only Jewish state, which is also the only democracy in the Middle East," he said.

Indonesia central bank announces rate hike

Published: June 18, 2026 | 08:21 GMT | by AFP

Indonesia’s central bank on Thursday hiked interest rates for the third time in four weeks as the country looks to bolster its currency, which has taken a battering from surging energy costs caused by the Middle East war.

It has been Asia's worst-performing currency, according to financial outlet Bloomberg News, shedding around 7%. Bank Indonesia lifted its key interest rate by 25 basis points to 5.75%.

The move came after it announced a surprise 50-basis-point hike on May 20 -- the first in two years -- and another of 25 points on Tuesday last week.

"This increase is a follow-up step to further strengthen the stability of the rupiah’s exchange rate amid persistently high global uncertainty," Perry Warjiyo, the central bank governor, told a news conference.

The rupiah tanked earlier this month to a record 18,209 per dollar before bouncing back after last week's rate increase. It is now sitting around 17,800.

Pakistan PM signs Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding as mediator

Published: June 18, 2026 | 08:03 GMT | by Web Desk

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif signed the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (Islamabad MoU)، as mediator, said a post shared on X on Thursday by Prime Minister's Office.

The Islamabad MOU has been signed by President of the US Donald J Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, the post added.

IAEA says ready to help formulate 'concrete steps' towards implementing US-Iran deal

Published: June 18, 2026 | 07:51 GMT | by AFP

The International Atomic Energy Agency said Thursday that it was ready to begin defining the "concrete steps" that will need to be taken to implement a US-Iran deal.

"Now it's for us to sit down with our American colleagues, our Iranian colleagues, and start formulating the concrete steps that will have to be to be taken," IAEA chief Rafael Grossi told reporters in Geneva.

Pakistan president terms signing of US-Iran MoU 'historic moment' for region

Published: June 18, 2026 | 07:45 GMT | by Web Desk

Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has warmly welcomed the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Iran, describing it as an historic moment for the region and the world, said a statement issued by President's Secretariat on Thursday.

In his message, the president said that the conflict which began in February inflicted immense suffering upon the peoples of the region and caused severe disruption to global energy supplies, trade and economic stability.

He expressed hope that such a tragedy would never be repeated and that the nations of the region would now devote their energies to development, prosperity and the well-being of their peoples.

The president paid tribute to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Defense Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi for their tireless diplomatic efforts that contributed significantly to bringing the parties to an agreement.

He noted that Pakistan had played a principled, balanced and constructive role throughout the crisis, consistently calling for dialogue, restraint and a peaceful resolution of disputes while maintaining engagement with all parties concerned.

President Zardari also appreciated the leadership of President Donald Trump, Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei, President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi for ensuring a diplomatic resolution of the conflict and advancing the cause of peace.

President Zardari also acknowledged the valuable support of brotherly nations, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Egypt, as well as the Russian Federation and China, whose efforts and encouragement of dialogue contributed to the pursuit of peace.

China says 'welcomes' Iran-US signing deal to end Mideast war

Published: June 18, 2026 | 07:36 GMT | by AFP

China said on Thursday it "welcomes" news that the United States and Iran signed a deal to end the Middle East war, urging both sides to continue their cooperation in a second round of negotiations.

"China welcomes this development and hopes that all relevant parties -- including the US and Iran -- will uphold the spirit of their agreement and earnestly honour their commitments," foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian told a news conference, urging Washington and Tehran to "meet each other halfway" in the next stage of talks.

Canadian FM commends Pakistan's 'constructive role' in US-Iran talks

Published: June 18, 2026 | 06:17 GMT | by Web Desk

Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand has "commended Pakistan’s constructive role in supporting diplomatic engagement and mediation efforts between the United States and Iran."

A post shared by Pakistan's Foreign Ministry on X on Thursday stated, "Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 spoke last night with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand @AnitaAnandMP."

"FM Anita Anand commended Pakistan’s constructive role in supporting diplomatic engagement and mediation efforts between the United States and Iran, which helped facilitate the understanding reached between the two parties," it said.

"They also discussed the forthcoming engagement between the parties in Bürgenstock, Switzerland on Friday," the post added.

"Appreciating the positive momentum in Pakistan–Canada relations, they reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation across areas of mutual interest," it said.

Israel military says one soldier killed in Lebanon, seven injured

Published: June 18, 2026 | 05:17 GMT | by AFP

The Israeli military announced on Thursday that one of its soldiers had been killed in fighting in southern Lebanon the day before, in an incident that also wounded seven soldiers.

Master Sergeant Alexander Filin, 29, "fell in combat", the military said in a brief statement, adding that an officer, a reserve officer and a reserve soldier were moderately injured.

A combat non-commissioned officer, two reserve soldiers and a female reserve soldier were lightly injured, the military added.

Pakistan details implementation roadmap

Published: June 17, 2026 | 23:40 GMT | by Web Desk

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif subsequently announced the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding and outlined the first steps under the agreement, describing it as a landmark diplomatic achievement.

“The Memorandum has been signed by honourable Presidents of both the countries and also endorsed by me as the mediator,” Sharif said in a post on X.

He said the signing demonstrated the “commitment of both sides to a diplomatic resolution of the conflict.”

The prime minister said the agreement would enter into force immediately.

“Islamabad MoU shall enter into force with immediate effect and as a first step, Islamic Republic of Iran will instantly reopen the Strait of Hormuz and the United States of America will immediately lift the naval blockade,” he said.

He thanked US President Donald Trump, Iranian leaders, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Egypt for their support, while paying special tribute to Chief of Defense Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir for his role in facilitating the breakthrough.

“May this Memorandum of Understanding serve as an enduring foundation for greater understanding, mutual respect and shared prosperity for the complete region,” the prime minister said.

Peace has prevailed: Pakistan's information minister on signing of Islamabad MoU

Published: June 18, 2026 | 01:46 GMT | by Web Desk

Pakistan's Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, in a post on X, said that "peace has prevailed," after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the signing of the historic Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding to end the conflict between the United States and Iran.

"The historic 'Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding' has been signed today. Hats off to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defense Forces Syed Asim Munir," he said.

Washington endorses finalized accord

Published: June 17, 2026 | 23:33 GMT | by Web Desk

US President Donald Trump later confirmed that the agreement had been signed, backing Tehran's earlier announcement and signaling that Washington was ready to move toward implementation.

“It’s signed in Versailles,” Trump told reporters as he departed following the G7 summit in France.

Trump had repeatedly described the agreement as a pathway to broader regional stability and credited mediators, including Pakistan and Qatar, for helping advance negotiations.

Implementation phase now begins

Published: June 17, 2026 | 22:42 GMT | by AFP

Iran became the first party to publicly confirm the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, signaling that attention would now shift from negotiations to implementation.

“The text of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding was finalised with the signatures of the presidents — now it is time to test the implementation of the agreement,” foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said, according to Iran's state news agency IRNA.

The confirmation marks a major milestone in a peace process that followed more than 100 days of conflict, military escalation and intensive diplomacy involving Pakistan, Qatar and other regional partners.

110 days (from Feb 28 to Jun 17)

The agreement caps 110 days of conflict that began on February 28, when US and Israeli strikes on Iran triggered a wider regional crisis involving military exchanges across the Gulf, disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, and parallel fighting involving Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Throughout the crisis, Pakistan emerged as a central diplomatic interlocutor, maintaining continuous engagement with Washington, Tehran and key regional capitals.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Defense Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi held a series of high-level contacts with US, Iranian, Gulf, Turkish and international counterparts as Islamabad coordinated mediation efforts alongside Qatar.

Pakistan also hosted direct US-Iran talks in Islamabad, facilitated subsequent rounds of engagement, and worked with regional and global stakeholders to transform a fragile ceasefire into the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding signed on June 17.

For earlier developments, read our June 17 live blog here.