U.S. Lifts Iran Blockade, 10 Ships Cross Hormuz as 60-Day Nuclear Talks Begin
Updated
Updated · CBS New York · Jun 18
U.S. Lifts Iran Blockade, 10 Ships Cross Hormuz as 60-Day Nuclear Talks Begin
3 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Jun 18
Summary
At least 10 commercial vessels were transiting the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday morning after U.S. Central Command ended its blockade of Iranian ports and coastal shipping under the new U.S.-Iran memorandum.
12.5 million barrels of oil moved through the strait overnight, Vice President JD Vance said, calling it evidence the deal is working while warning no final agreement will happen if Iran seeks transit tolls.
The 60-day negotiation window began Thursday, with initial U.S.-Iran implementation talks expected in Switzerland on Friday and technical discussions set to focus on enriched uranium, inspections and missile limits.
U.S. officials said sanctions relief and wider economic benefits depend on Iranian compliance, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned Washington could quickly reimpose the naval blockade and resume military action.
The deal still faces regional strain: Israel says troops will remain in a roughly six-mile security zone in southern Lebanon, a presence Tehran says would violate the agreement's requirement to halt fighting on all fronts.
With mines, high insurance, and disputed tolls, is the Strait of Hormuz truly open for business despite the new US-Iran deal?
As Israel remains in Lebanon in defiance of the deal, is the celebrated US-Iran ceasefire already on the verge of collapse?
Can a 60-day negotiation truly dismantle a nuclear program that has operated for years without full international oversight?
60 Days to Peace? The 2026 U.S.-Iran Memorandum and Its Impact on Global Energy, Security, and Diplomacy
Overview
On June 18, 2026, the U.S. and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding that marked a turning point for global energy. While the agreement raised hopes for the quick resumption of oil shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, the reality was more cautious. Despite President Trump's call to "let the oil flow," marine traffic remained stalled due to ongoing security concerns and maritime advisories. The deal sparked expectations of market relief, but actual progress was slow as restrictions and risks persisted. This situation highlights the gap between diplomatic announcements and the complex, on-the-ground challenges facing global energy and security.