U.S. lifts Iran port blockade as 60-day nuclear talks begin
Why it matters: The truce reopens the Strait of Hormuz, a route that carried about 20% of global oil before the war.
The U.S. lifted its naval blockade of Iranian ports on Thursday, putting into effect a ceasefire deal that opens a 60-day window for broader negotiations with Tehran, including over Iran’s nuclear program. Iran committed to allow commercial shipping and oil tankers to move through the Strait of Hormuz without fees for 60 days, though mine-clearing and security fears could delay a full return of traffic. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei publicly backed direct talks with American officials despite saying he had reservations. Vice President JD Vance said he may travel to Switzerland this weekend for technical talks, while the U.S. Navy remains nearby to enforce the agreement.