U.S. Ends Hormuz Blockade as Negotiations Restart

The United States has lifted its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, allowing shipping to resume after a 60-day interim peace agreement was reached with Iran. The deal, which took effect on June 18, 2026, has eased oil market tensions, with prices falling from recent highs. However, critics warn that the agreement could grant Iran sanctions relief and access to significant funds. The U.S. and Iran have begun a 60-day negotiating period to finalize a broader agreement on Iran’s nuclear program. Vice President JD Vance downplayed concerns that Iran could impose tolls on traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, stating that international waterways should be free of tolls. The U.S. Central Command announced that it had lifted the blockade on traffic to and from Iranian ports and coastal areas, with American forces remaining in the area to ensure adherence to the agreement. Ships carrying stranded oil have begun making their way out of the Strait of Hormuz, and Kuwait has announced plans to ramp up production. The agreement has sparked a flurry of activity in the region, with Iran stating that commercial vessel traffic at southern ports has returned to normal. However, some critics, including Republican allies of President Trump, have expressed concerns that the deal concedes too much to Iran in terms of sanctions relief and potentially unfreezing tens of billions of dollars of funds.