Iran Claims Passage Through US Blockade as Ceasefire Deal Nears

The United States' blockade of Iranian ports continues pending the finalization of a ceasefire deal with Iran, scheduled for June 19. A U.S. military advisory had stated that the blockade restricts all inbound and outbound traffic and warned captains to consider crew safety, noting that non-compliance could result in disabling or destructive fire.

Iranian media reported that three oil tankers and two other ships carrying essential goods have passed through the U.S. naval blockade. This report comes as Washington and Tehran announced they have agreed terms to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz after months of disruption to shipping and energy markets.

President Trump announced a preliminary agreement on Sunday, characterizing it as a step towards permanently toll-free passage through the Strait of Hormuz. He and Vice President Vance electronically signed a memorandum of understanding, with details to be released within 48 hours. This agreement is considered the first step in ending the war, with further technical discussions to follow. The deal aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively closed since the U.S.-Israeli war in Iran began in late February.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian described the memorandum of understanding as a 'document of honour' and a 'victory.' The news spurred a rally in Asian stock markets, with Japan's Nikkei 225 and South Korea's Kospi indices seeing significant gains.