President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that Iran has agreed to the highest level of nuclear inspections as part of a nascent peace agreement, while confirming the United States has lifted its naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The developments mark a significant diplomatic shift, easing tensions that had disrupted global oil shipments and roiled energy markets.
Trump stated on social media that Iran has “fully and completely agreed to highest level Nuclear inspections long into the future,” a claim Tehran swiftly denied, saying no discussions on its nuclear program have begun and no invitation has been extended to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors. Despite Iran’s denial, the White House characterized the agreement as providing unprecedented IAEA access, including short-notice inspections of all nuclear sites, akin to the Additional Protocol.
As part of the arrangement, the U.S. allowed the Strait of Hormuz to reopen to commercial traffic, with 19 million barrels of oil flowing through on Monday alone. Oil prices dropped following the announcement. The U.S. has waived sanctions on Iran for 60 days starting Monday, releasing funds into an escrow account controlled by Washington, which can only be used to purchase American food and medical supplies, including corn, wheat, and soybeans. Trump cited a humanitarian crisis in Iran as justification for the aid.
American naval vessels remain stationed in the region as a precaution, though Trump said reinstating the blockade is “highly unlikely.” The deal remains in early stages, with no formal written agreement in place, raising questions about enforcement and long-term compliance. The contradictory statements from Tehran and Washington indicate that the two sides may not be fully aligned on the terms.
