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The United States has withdrawn the blockade imposed on all types of vessels entering and exiting Iranian ports and coastal areas.
The US military’s Middle East-based command, CENTCOM (Central Command), announced this information on Thursday (June 18), Al Jazeera reports.
In a post on the social media platform X, CENTCOM stated that US forces are no longer obstructing the movement of ships entering or exiting Iranian ports located in the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. However, CENTCOM also stated that despite the lifting of the blockade, the US naval presence in the region will continue. According to the agency, US warships will remain deployed in the area to ensure that “all aspects” of the understanding reached with Iran are properly implemented.
This decision by the US, following recent tensions, is seen as a significant step for regional maritime trade and navigation. However, no further information about the detailed terms of the understanding has been immediately provided by CENTCOM.
Notably, on Thursday, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Donald Trump digitally signed a memorandum of understanding, making the agreement effective. The understanding includes issues such as ending the war, the situation in Lebanon, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and the withdrawal of the US naval blockade on Iran.
However, with the aim of reaching a final agreement, both sides are expected to begin a 60-day negotiation process on issues such as Iran’s nuclear program and the lifting of sanctions.