In a historic first, Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian admits the Islamic Republic of Iran is facing its worst crisis in 48 years since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Speaking at East Azerbaijan Planning Council, Pezeshkian said, 'Never in the 48 years since the Islamic Revolution have we been under such pressure and faced such difficulties', citing killings of senior figures, attacks on energy infrastructure, power plants, gas networks, factories, and restrictions on maritime, air and land routes.

In 2025 and 2026, Iran and the United States began a series of negotiations aimed at reaching a nuclear peace agreement, following a letter from US president Donald Trump to Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei, setting a 60-day deadline for Iran to reach an agreement. After the deadline passed without an agreement in June 2025, Israel launched airstrikes against Iran, starting the Twelve-Day War. As of June 28, 2026, there were three rounds of talks before the Islamabad talks that led to the Islamabad Memorandum, and two rounds of technical talks.

The first round was held in Oman on April 12, 2025, led by US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi. A second round of Omani-mediated talks took place in Rome on April 19, 2025, again between Witkoff and Araghchi. This was followed by a third round in Muscat around a week later; an expert-level meeting to develop a framework for a possible nuclear agreement was led by Michael Anton for the US and by Majid Takht-Ravanchi for Iran.

The US military had been building up its presence in the Middle East as the threat of war escalated.  US bases throughout the region accommodate approximately 50,000 American troops. As part of the peace proposals, Iran proposed building at least 19 additional reactors, suggesting that American involvement in these projects could help revitalize the US nuclear industry.  A planned address by Araghchi to formally announce this proposal was ultimately cancelled.

On May 27, U.S. President Trump said both sides were close to finalizing an agreement involving strong inspections. Araghchi stated he was unsure whether a

deal was imminent, while Khamenei's advisor, Ali Shamkhani, dismissed Trump's desired control over the Iranian nuclear program as a "fantasy".  Israel reportedly threatened to preemptively attack Iranian nuclear installations, although this was denied by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.  

On May 31, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported that Iran had amassed a record amount of military-grade enriched uranium. On June 11, US embassies in Iraq and other Arab states began to evacuate personnel in response to Iranian threats on American bases. The Houthis threatened retaliation against the United States should an attack be launched on Iran.  President Trump was reportedly provided with a range of options for an attack on Iran by CENTCOM. The UK issued a threat advisory for ships in the Persian Gulf.  On June 12, the IAEA declared Iran in breach of its non-proliferation obligations.

On June 13, Israel launched large-scale attacks targeting Iran's military leadership and nuclear scientists.  Consequently, Iran withdrew and suspended nuclear talks indefinitely.  The United States also carried out a series of strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and negotiations between the United States and Iran were subsequently suspended. Talks resumed in early 2026 after large-scale protests in Iran. Meanwhile, the US military buildup in the Middle East continued.

On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel launched large-scale strikes on Iran, marking the start of the 2026 Iran war. The attacks included the assassination of Khamenei, as well as the assassination of Ali Larijani, a key figure in the negotiations.  

On April 7, 2026, Iran and the United States announced a temporary two-week ceasefire.

On May 24, 2026, reports indicated that the United States and Iran were nearing a broader peace agreement following months of conflict and stalled negotiations. US president Donald Trump stated that a memorandum of understanding was close to finalisation and suggested that the Strait of Hormuz could soon reopen under a ceasefire framework.

On June, 17, 2026, Trump and Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian signed remotely the Islamabad Memorandum to end the war between both countries and Israel, with Trump signing it during dinner with French president Emmanuel Macron at the Palace of Versailles following the G7 summit, after which Pezeshkian signed it in Tehran.

On July 8, the ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran broke after Iran launched attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz to assert Iranian sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, startling US officials and shattering a brief diplomatic calm.

On June 9, Iran rejected the Trump administration's proposal for a new nuclear deal but announced plans to present a counteroffer through Omani mediators. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei called the US proposal unacceptable and not aligned with the ongoing negotiations. The main points of disagreement included Iran's right to continue domestic uranium enrichment, the handling of its stockpiles of highly enriched uranium, and the conditions for lifting sanctions against Iran. While Trump demanded the full dismantlement of Iran's enrichment program, Iranian leaders insisted that enrichment was non-negotiable. The latest US offer reportedly included assistance in building nuclear power reactors and allowed limited enrichment until a regional consortium facility becomes operational.  A central demand from Iran was that sanctions relief must bring tangible economic benefits. Baghaei emphasized that this includes guarantees of restored banking and trade ties with other countries before any sanctions are lifted.  He also urged the international community to address Israel's undeclared nuclear arsenal and prevent it from derailing negotiations.

On June 10, U.S. President Trump stated in a Fox News interview that Iran was becoming "much more aggressive" in the negotiations.  The following day, Iranian defense minister Aziz Nasirzadeh warned that if negotiations with the US collapse and conflict erupts, Iran will target American bases in the region. He stated that all US bases in nearby countries are within reach. Trump also repeatedly threatened Iran with military action if no deal was reached.  US defense secretary Hegseth announced that the US military was getting ready in case the talks fail.  On June 12, IAEA found Iran non-compliant with its nuclear obligations for the first time in 20 years.

The IAEA stated that Iran's repeated failure to fully address questions about undeclared nuclear material and activities amounted to non-compliance.  It also raised concerns over Iran's enriched uranium stockpile, which could be used for both reactor fuel and nuclear weapons. Iran dismissed the resolution as politically motivated, and declared plans to build a new enrichment site and install advanced centrifuges

As of May 17 U.S. President Trump has reportedly set five preconditions for Iranian regime to be able to resume deal negotiations:

Iran to deliver 400 kg of enriched uranium to the United States

Iran to maintain one operational nuclear facility.

Linking negotiations to a cessation of hostilities.

Refusing to release at least 25% of Iran's frozen assets.

Rejecting Iran's demand for reparations.

On May 24, 2026, reports indicated that the United States and Iran were nearing a broader peace agreement following months of conflict and stalled negotiations. U.S president Donald Trump stated that a memorandum of understanding was close to finalisation and suggested that the Strait of Hormuz could soon reopen under a ceasefire framework. According to media reports, the proposed agreement included a temporary moratorium on Iranian uranium enrichment, discussions over sanctions relief, and phased reopening of maritime trade routes in the Persian Gulf.

In May 2026, US president Donald Trump called for a significant expansion of the Abraham Accords as part of negotiations aimed at ending the Iran war. According to Trump, he urged Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Pakistan, Turkey, Egypt, and Jordan to join the accords and normalize relations with Israel in a coordinated, simultaneous manner, while noting that the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain were already signatories.  U.S. President Trump stated that he had spoken with leaders of the countries involved and described their participation as an integral component of a broader peace settlement involving Iran. He also suggested that Iran itself could potentially join the Abraham Accords following the conclusion of a peace agreement.

Pakistan publicly rejected the proposal, while other countries had not issued formal responses at the time of reporting.

On May 25, 2026, reports from international media indicated that the United States conducted military operations in southern Iran targeting missile launch sites and boats in the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command (CENTCOM) described the actions as defensive strikes in response to perceived maritime threats. The incident occurred during ongoing ceasefire conditions and continued negotiations between the United States and Iran, and was reported by multiple outlets as contributing to heightened regional tensions.

On May 30 IRGC General Rezaei stated that they are going to be willing to attack the blockade if Trump betrays negotiations now  while White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller claimed Iranian regime has made significant concessions in the negotiations like reopening the strait.  U.S. President Trump had given draft versions of MoU deal to various parties including Israel and Arab countries.  Inside Iran the negotiations caused rift among several factions according to NYTimes.

In June 2026, the United States was considering redirecting Iranian frozen assets to Gulf states for reconstruction and repair costs linked to damage attributed to Iran. The proposal came amid indirect negotiations between the United States and Iran, while a peace deal was described as hinging on the release of $24 billion in Iranian assets frozen by the United States.

On June 15, 2026, US and Iranian officials reportedly reached a preliminary agreement on a framework aimed at extending the ceasefire and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, as well as ending hostilities in Lebanon.  The agreement, described as a memorandum of understanding (MoU), is an initial framework and not a final peace agreement. It sets out a 60-day ceasefire period during which further talks are expected to address unresolved issues, including Iran's nuclear program, especially uranium enrichment levels and the status of its highly enriched uranium stockpiles.

The framework includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping and lifting restrictions on maritime traffic, as well as discussions on sanctions relief and the possible release of up to $25 billion in frozen Iranian assets, depending on future compliance. Key issues, including the final status of Iran's nuclear program, remain unresolved and are expected to be discussed in later negotiations during the ceasefire period.

Following the digital signing,  US and Iranian officials held extended talks at the Lake Lucerne Summit in Switzerland, mediated by Pakistan and Qatar, where discussions continued over the implementation of the agreement.  Axios reported that the talks included plans for a High Level Committee to oversee implementation, as well as mechanisms related to maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz and de-escalation in Lebanon.

PATRIOT DAY 2026,
THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF
THE SEPTEMBER 11 TERRORIST ATTACKS

PROCLAMATION | SEPTEMBER 09, 2026

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

A quarter of a century has passed since the terrible day of September 11, 2001, and an entire generation of Americans has now come of age with no living memory of that fateful day.  The passage of time must never dim what will forever burn bright in the conscience of our Nation.  Amid the ashes of Ground Zero, we made a solemn vow to Never Forget — a vow that must be renewed in every American heart, taught in every classroom, and honored in every community across our land.  

Twenty-five years ago, beneath a clear September sky, the peace of our Nation was shattered when radical Islamic terrorists hijacked four commercial jet planes and converted them into weapons of mass murder.  

At 8:46 a.m. American Airlines Flight 11 was deliberately flown into the North Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City.  Shadowing closely behind was United Airlines Flight 175 and within a span of 17 minutes, the South Tower was struck.  At that moment, it became clear that our Nation was under attack.  Before the morning had passed, both soaring towers — the premier symbols of American economic strength and prosperity — had collapsed into the city below, claiming thousands of innocent lives and leaving behind unfathomable destruction.  The time was 10:28 a.m.

Just 34 minutes later, at the edge of our Nation’s capital in Arlington, Virginia, American Airlines Flight 77 was flown into the Pentagon, the fortress of American military might, striking down members of our Armed Forces and dedicated civil servants.  Amid smoke and flames, survivors turned back into the burning building to carry survivors to safety.  

But the horror of that morning was not over. Aboard United Airlines Flight 93, passengers learned through frantic cellphone calls of the terror already unfolding in New York and Virginia.  Knowing that their plane was being used as a weapon, they resolved to fight back.  Among them was Todd Beamer, a devoted husband, father, 
and man of deep faith, who calmly led his fellow passengers in a recitation of the Lord’s Prayer before speaking his last, immortal words: “Are you ready?  Okay.  Let’s roll.”  With those immortal words, the heroes of Flight 93 mounted a daring assault on the hijackers and forced the aircraft down in a field outside of Shanksville, Pennsylvania, just 20 minutes flying time from their intended target of our Nation’s capital.  In laying down their lives, those 40 patriots transformed a quiet field into hallowed ground — leaving behind an everlasting testament to the unbreakable will of the American people. 

In just a little over two hours on Tuesday, September 11, 2001, 2,977 innocent souls perished in the most despicable act of terror in the history of our country. Yet amid the wreckage and carnage of that day, the world witnessed the courage, valor, and patriotism of America.  Members of the New York City Police Department, the Fire Department of the City of New York, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, worked around the clock beside almost 100 emergency and first responder agencies to save those still trapped in the rubble and ensure the safe evacuation of untold thousands of New York City residents.  Rescue workers, medical personnel, and thousands of volunteers answered the call, risking their own lives and giving everything they had to help fellow Americans.  

In the hours and days that followed September 11, 2001, our Nation came together with a unity and purpose that is distinctively American.  We mourned as one people.  We prayed as one Nation.  We resolved, with iron will, that those who attacked us would feel the full measure of American strength.  The terrorists sought to break our spirit — they failed.  They sought to divide us — they could not.  They sought to make us afraid — instead, they awakened the mightiest force for justice the world has ever known.

In the days, months, and years that followed, thousands of American patriots stepped forward to wear the uniform of the United States Armed Forces.  They left behind their families and communities, crossed oceans, and carried the fight to our enemies in distant battlefields so the horrors of that September morning would never again reach our shores.  For nearly a quarter century, an entire generation of warriors served, fought, and sacrificed in defense of our freedom.  Many gave their last full measure of devotion, and countless others returned home bearing the seen and unseen wounds of war.  Our Nation owes them a debt that can never be repaid. 

That September morning changed our country forever, teaching us that oceans alone could no longer shield our homeland from the forces of evil, that liberty must always be guarded by a free and vigilant people, and that the strength of our Republic will always prevail.  As President, I have no higher duty than to ensure the safety and well-being of the American People, and from the very first day I returned to office, my Administration has been unwavering in its commitment to ensure that our Nation is defended by the strongest and most lethal military the world has ever known.  I will never hesitate to protect our country by enforcing a foreign policy of peace through strength, bringing swift justice to our enemies wherever they hide, and vigorously defending our national security interests at home and abroad.

Today, the hatred that struck us on September 11 still exists, and the lessons of that day remain as urgent as ever.  We must defend our sovereignty, our values, and our sacred birthright to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.  We must protect our treasured way of life against all those who seek our destruction — whether they threaten us from foreign lands or from among us within our borders.  Most of all, we must ensure that the memory of September 11 never fades into history, but remains a living inheritance passed from one generation of Americans to the next.

For millions of Americans, the memories of September 11, 2001, remain as vivid today as they were 25 years ago.  We will never forget the 2,977 precious lives taken from us, we will always cherish their memories, and we will forever hold their families in the enduring embrace of our Nation.  We stand in unending gratitude to the first responders who answered the call of duty, including the thousands who continue to suffer from serious health conditions caused by their service.  We honor the warriors of our Armed Forces who have defended the sacred cause of freedom in the quarter century since.  Above all, we ask Almighty God to keep our Republic forever safe, forever united, and forever free.

By a joint resolution approved December 18, 2001 (Public Law 107-89), the Congress designated September 11 of each year as “Patriot Day.”

NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim September 11, 2026, as Patriot Day, 2026.  I call upon all departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States to display the Flag of the United States at half-staff in honor of the 2,977 victims of the attacks of September 11, 2001.  I also invite the Governors of the United States and its Territories, and interested organizations and individuals, to join in this observance.  

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this ninth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fifty-first.

The 25th anniversary memorial services:  To commemorate the 25th anniversary multiple ceremonies were held across the United States. President Donald Trump and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth spoke at an event at the US Pentagon, with both referencing the ongoing Iran war and suggesting that the war was a continuation of the war on terror.  Vice President JD Vance, and former presidents Joe Biden, George W Bush, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama attended the ceremony in Lower Manhattan. Another service was held at the crash site of United Airlines Flight 93, in Pennsylvania.

According to Daily News Jagran, September 9th, 2026, reported by Nikita Kapoor says that China Dumps Iran For Trump? Beijing's 4 Ruthless Demands Leave Tehran In Complete Panic | Decoded

Iran turned down by China in its darkest hour? In this episode of Decoded, Nikita Kapoor breaks down how Beijing reportedly hit Iran with four cold, ruthless demands right in the middle of Tehran's war with America. Reformist politician Hossein Marashi dropped a massive bombshell, revealing Beijing’s strict conditions for Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf’s visit to China. Has Beijing officially abandoned Iran when it needs it the most?

Operation Economic Outcast:
Total Isolation of the Iranian Regime
 The White House | August 24, 2026
 

Today, the Trump Administration unleashed Operation Economic Outcast, an unprecedented campaign to sever every remaining economic lifeline sustaining the Islamic Republic of Iran. After President Trump and the overwhelming might of the U.S. military dismantled Iran’s military capabilities and crippled its nuclear program, America is entering the endgame with the single greatest financial offensive ever mounted against an adversary.

Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent announced the operation:

• “Today, at President Trump’s direction, the United States Treasury has begun Operation Economic Outcast — an unprecedented campaign against the Islamic Republic of Iran and its enablers… We are launching an economic onslaught against Iran’s financial connections around the globe. Our objective is to sever every economic lifeline that sustains this tyrannical regime until Tehran stands alone.” (Watch)
   
• “President Trump has taken action that his predecessors have long deferred. Under his leadership, America is no longer managing the Iranian threat — we are ending it.” (Watch)
   
• “Iran now faces a very clear choice, with only two paths before them: complete global isolation and a subsistence economy or a path back to normalcy with an opportunity to rejoin the global economy. Today, we are launching Operation Economic Outcast to foreclose every other option available to the Iranian regime.” (Watch)
   
• “Beginning today, the actions of Treasury and other agencies will tighten the noose and block every potential source of revenue that funds the IRGC and the evil Iranian regime. We are enforcing a ‘zero-leakage approach’; there will be no minimal breathing space for the regime to rebuild its capacity to inflict terror against America and the world.” (Watch)
   
• “The final refuge of this regime is the mistaken conclusion of nations that still finance the Iranian threat in the hopes of evading it. It is no longer acceptable to operate in the gray spaces of this conflict.” (Watch)
   
• “The new sectoral sanctions determinations issued today target five of Iran’s most vital lifelines that it exploits in other countries: digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping. These measures broaden secondary sanctions risk for anyone foolish enough to continue conducting business with this regime.” (Watch)
   
• “Let there be no ambiguity as to the position of the United States: an economic engagement of any kind with this murderous regime will expose those responsible to the full reach of American power.” (Watch)
   
• “Any entity that facilitates money laundering on behalf of Iran will be removed from the U.S. Dollar system. The clock just started ticking.” (Watch)
   
• “Nations that facilitate any interactions with the regime should quickly heed our message. Those who stand with the United States will reap the rewards of our partnership; those who tether themselves to the Iranian regime should expect to share in the isolation of a withering regime.” (Watch)
   

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In a forceful Financial Times op-ed, Secretary Bessent made the strategic intent unmistakable:
 

“President Donald Trump and the overwhelming might of our military have significantly dismantled Iran’s military capabilities and weakened its nuclear programme. Now we are entering the endgame. At dawn begins an economic D-Day — the single greatest financial offensive ever marshalled against an adversary… The world should understand that our objective is to sever every economic lifeline that sustains the tyrannical regime until Tehran stands alone.”

Read the full op-ed here.

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For decades, President Trump has been clear: the Islamic Republic of Iran — the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism for nearly half a century — can never be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon. Operation Economic Outcast delivers on that promise, cutting off the regime’s last remaining means to threaten the United States and ensuring Tehran stands alone, bankrupt, and broken.

 

Treasury Launches Unprecedented Campaign
Against Iranian Regime on Economic D-Day

PRESS RELEASES | August 24, 2026

Initiates Operation Economic Outcast

WASHINGTON—Today, at President Trump’s direction, the U.S. Department of the Treasury has begun Operation Economic Outcast: an unprecedented, whole-of-government, economic campaign against the Islamic Republic of Iran and its enablers. 

“In the Second World War, D-Day marked the historic beginning of a campaign with our allies to target and drive the enemy from its positions, including those in third countries.  Today, in that same spirit, we are launching an economic onslaught against Iran’s financial connections around the globe. Our objective is to sever every economic lifeline that sustains this tyrannical regime until Tehran stands alone,” said Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent. “President Trump has taken action that his predecessors have long deferred. Under his leadership, America is no longer managing the Iranian threat. We are ending it. Those who stand with the United States will reap the rewards of our partnership. Those who tether themselves to Tehran should expect to share in the isolation of a withering regime.”

Operation Economic Outcast Targets Iran’s Lifelines

Operation Economic Outcast will sever the economic lifelines that sustain the Iranian regime and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). These actions today mark the beginning of a sustained and systematic campaign to close every financial resource that supports the leading state sponsor of terror.

Treasury has mapped the networks, facilitators, and financial channels that Iran uses to smuggle oil, evade sanctions, and fund terror. Working with our partners across the U.S. government, Treasury will be uncompromising in targeting any source of the regime’s illicit revenue.

The Iranian regime faces a clear choice: severe global isolation or a path to reintegration with the global economy.

U.S. Government Presses Countries for Immediate Action, Expands Secondary Sanctions Risk for Iran-Related Activity

Teams from the Departments of Treasury, State, and War are engaging counterparts around the world to make clear that the United States expects immediate action. Every country will be given a defined timeline to shut down the Iran-related activity we have identified. If they fail to act, Treasury will act.

Any entity that facilitates money laundering or sanctions evasion on behalf of Iran risks being cut off from the U.S. financial system. Today’s announcement also expands secondary sanctions exposure for those who continue doing business with the Iranian regime and will accelerate the pace of U.S. enforcement.

Today’s actions are as follows:

• Treasury is expanding the categories of Iran-related conduct that may be subject to secondary sanctions in the future, making it easier to take action against those facilitating the regime. Treasury has issued determinations against five critical sectors––digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping––that the Iranian regime uses to try to prop up its failing economy.
   
• The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned nearly 60 entities, individuals, and vessels in multiple jurisdictions that enable the Iranian regime’s recklessness, including illicit nuclear and missile technology procurement, cyber operations, and oil-revenue generation networks.
   
• OFAC suspended several general licenses that previously authorized certain remittance payments to Iran and Iranian access to the U.S. cultural and academic system.
   
• OFAC issued additional guidance on the sanctions risks of bowing to Iranian demands related to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. 
   

OFAC SIGNIFICANTLY EXPANDING SANCTIONS RISK TO KEY SECTORS

Treasury is significantly expanding sanctions risk for those who continue to choose to do business with Iran.  It is well documented that the Iranian regime has increasingly leveraged a variety of means to sustain itself and continue its campaign of destabilization and terrorism in the region and around the world.  This includes the regime’s attempts to exploit digital assets, acquire critical technology, and obfuscate its shipping trade, leveraging third-country jurisdictions as critical enablers in these schemes.  This is unacceptable.

Today, OFAC is issuing an unprecedented five sectoral sanctions determinations pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13902, which targets certain sectors of the Iranian economy, further strengthening and significantly expanding Treasury’s ability to impose sanctions on any foreign person operating in or providing services in support of these sectors.   

With today’s action, OFAC can now sanction any person, regardless of where they are located, that operates in the following sectors of the Iranian economy:
 

• Digital Assets:  The Iranian regime increasingly turns to cryptocurrency as a tool of choice for sanctions evasion, supporting transactions linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and Iranian regime insiders.
   
• Technology:  Iran is also attempting to access advanced technologies and integrate these technologies into its domestically manufactured weapons programs.
   
• Gold:  As Iran’s formal financial sector collapses, the regime is increasingly attempting to stabilize the rial with gold to hedge against rampant inflation. 
   
• Aviation:  Iran continues to use its supposed “commercial” airlines, many of which are controlled by the regime and the IRGC, to ferry fighters, ship weapons and sensitive technologies, and move gold and hard cash to its proxies. 
   
• Shipping:  Iran’s national shipping line regularly transports sensitive weapons components and missile precursors, while Iran’s national tanker service illicitly ships oil for the regime and its military services.  
   

These determinations build on similar determinations targeting Iran’s financial and petroleum and petrochemical sectors, critical components of Iran’s economy which have seen significant declines in revenue and are rife with corruption and mismanagement.
 

OFAC Targets Nearly 60 Iran-Linked Entities, Individuals, and Vessels Across Nuclear, Missile, Cyber, and Oil Networks
 

Today’s designations also intensify pressure on the networks that sustain the regime’s malign activities and fund its attacks across the region.  OFAC is taking these actions pursuant to the following authorities: E.O. 13382, which targets proliferators of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their means of delivery; E.O. 13694, as amended by E.O. 13757 and as further amended by E.O. 14144 and 14306 (“E.O. 13694, as further amended”), which targets malicious cyber-enabled activities; E.O. 13902; and E.O. 13224, as amended, a counterterrorism authority.  The U.S. Department of State designated Iran’s Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics (MODAFL) pursuant to E.O. 13382 in October 2007 in connection with Iran’s ballistic missile program. 

Today’s actions target:

• A procurement scheme supporting MODAFL subordinates’ procurement of proliferation-sensitive technology and equipment for ballistic missile development and nuclear research;
   
• A malicious cyber group directed by Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS) that is responsible for extensive compromises of U.S. critical infrastructure and financially motivated cyber theft; and
   
• A network of brokers, companies, and shadow fleet vessels operating across the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Hong Kong, China, Singapore, Switzerland, Europe, and other regions to transport Iranian oil and channel revenue to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force (IRGC-QF) and other regime elements.
   

Treasury is also designating several international companies that operate within Iran’s petroleum sector and enable the deceptive movement and sale of Iranian crude and petroleum products. 

This MOIS action was taken in close coordination with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), which on August 18, 2026 announced the unsealing of a superseding indictment charging 17 Iranian cyber actors, four of whom are being designated today.  The MOIS is designated pursuant to multiple authorities––including E.O. 13694, as further amended, E.O. 13224, and E.O. 13553––for cyber activity that threatens the national security of the United States; support to multiple terrorist groups; and for being responsible for, or complicit in, the commission of serious human rights abuses against the Iranian people.  On September 18, 2023, OFAC designated the MOIS pursuant to E.O. 14078 for its involvement in the wrongful detention of U.S. citizens, including the abduction, detention, and probable murder of former FBI Special Agent Robert A. “Bob” Levinson, with the authorization of senior Iranian government officials. 
 

Furthermore, the U.S. Department of State’s Rewards for Justice program is offering a reward of up to $10 million for information on any person who, while acting at the direction or under the control of a foreign government, engages in certain malicious cyber activities against U.S. critical infrastructure in violation of the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act.  The public is encouraged to report malicious cyber and other illegal online activity to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). 
 

Concurrently, the Department of State is designating seven members of Iran’s defense leadership and two Iranian entities involved in enabling Iranian military strikes against U.S. forces and partners across the region.  The Department of State’s action also targeted actors involved in the trade of Iranian oil, petroleum products, and petrochemical products.

OFAC Disrupts Iran’s Global Procurement Network for Sensitive Nuclear and Missile Technology

As part of the MODAFL action, OFAC is targeting a network of more than 20 entities and individuals spanning the Middle East and East Asia that financially and logistically support the Iranian regime’s procurement of critical technology for nuclear research and missile development.  The persons sanctioned today facilitated the acquisition of proliferation-sensitive equipment for U.S., United Nations (UN), and European Union (EU)-sanctioned Malek Ashtar University of Technology (Malek Ashtar), as well as other end-users subordinate to Iran’s MODAFL.  The network has enabled Iran to obtain highly sensitive dual-use technology through a sprawling system of front companies, covert financial channels, and logistics intermediaries across East Asia, allowing sanctioned Iranian military institutions to disguise end users and evade global export controls.

Hong Kong-based Sweet Ocean Industrial Limited (Sweet Ocean) has served as an intermediary for the procurement of sensitive goods, including laser optics equipment, destined for Iran’s Malek Ashtar.  China-based Li Na, on behalf of Sweet Ocean, has coordinated the procurement of sensitive goods for Malek Ashtar and other Iranian customers.  China-based Tian Jianbai coordinated the procurement of an accelerometer––a navigation and guidance instrument with applications in missiles and aircraft––on behalf of Sweet Ocean.  China-based Zhang Limei has repeatedly served as the point of contact for billing and deliveries to Sweet Ocean. 

Li Na serves as the director and sole shareholder of Hong Kong-based RPT Technology Limited (RPT Technology), while Tian Jianbai serves as the director and 50-percent shareholder of China-based Shenzhen Sweet Ocean Technology Limited (Shenzhen Sweet Ocean), which specializes in test instrument products, lab devices, optical and electronic products, and the provision of purchase and sourcing agent services specifically for Iran.  Hong Kong-based Tiany Technology Limited (Tiany Technology) has facilitated Shenzhen Sweet Ocean’s procurement of sensitive products, including actuators, for Iranian end-users.  Hong Kong-based MT Trading and Logistics HK Limited (MT Trading) has served as an intermediary for Shenzhen Sweet Ocean in its efforts to procure sensitive U.S.-origin lab equipment for Iranian end-users. 

Sweet Ocean is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 for having provided, or attempted to provide, financial, material, technological or other support for, or goods or services in support of, Malek Ashtar. 

Li Na and Tian Jianbai are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 for acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Sweet Ocean. 

Zhang Limei is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 for having provided, or attempted to provide, financial, material, technological or other support for, or goods or services in support of, Sweet Ocean. 

RPT Technology is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 for being owned or controlled by, or acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Li Na.  

Shenzhen Sweet Ocean is being designated for being owned or controlled by, or acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Tian Jianbai. 

Tiany Technology and MT Trading are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 for having provided, or attempted to provide, financial, material, technological or other support for, or goods or services in support of, Shenzhen Sweet Ocean.

Hong Kong-based companies Feili Co Limited, Minvur Limited, Feisu Limited, and Guska Co Limited have each transferred tens of thousands of dollars to Sweet Ocean and its network in furtherance of procurements for multiple Iranian end-users.  Feili Co Limited, Minvur Limited, and Feisu Limited also serve as front companies that facilitate payments for Iran’s clandestine “shadow banking” networks, including for OFAC-sanctioned Iranian exchanges Seyyed Mohammad Mosanna’i Najibi And Partners Company (Sadaf Exchange) and Ebrahimi and Associates Partnership Company (Amin Exchange).  Guska Co Limited operates within Sadaf Exchange’s financial network.  On June 25, 2024, OFAC designated Sadaf Exchange pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, MODAFL.  On May 19, 2026, OFAC designated Amin Exchange pursuant to E.O. 13902 for operating in the financial sector of the Iranian economy. 

Malaysia-based Vast Mart SDN BHD (Vast Mart) and Hong Kong-based HK Jiatai Technology Limited (HK Jiatai) have transferred funds to Sweet Ocean on multiple occasions.  Hong Kong-based DEC Photonics Limited (DEC Photonics) has repeatedly transferred funds to Shenzhen Sweet Ocean.

Feili Co Limited, Minvur Limited, Feisu Limited, and Guska Co Limited are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13902 for operating in the financial sector of the Iranian economy.

Vast Mart and HK Jiatai are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 for having provided, or attempted to provide, financial, material, technological or other support for, or goods or services in support of, Sweet Ocean. 

DEC Photonics is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 for having provided, or attempted to provide, financial, material, technological or other support for, or goods or services in support of, Shenzhen Sweet Ocean.

Iran-based logistics firm Noavaran Axis Private Joint Stock Company (also known as BRE Line) has facilitated shipments to Iran’s Organization of Defensive Research and Innovation (SPND), which is subordinate to MODAFL.  SPND is a Tehran-based entity, established in 2011, that is primarily responsible for research in the field of nuclear weapons development.  The U.S. Department of State designated SPND pursuant to E.O. 13382 in 2014 for having engaged, or attempted to engage, in activities that have materially contributed to, or pose a risk of materially contributing to, the proliferation of weapons of mass destructions or their means of delivery.

Iran-based Mohammad Hossein Aslani Moghaddam (Aslani Moghaddam) serves as the managing director of BRE Line, and China-based Shenzhen Huamei Lianyun International Logistics Co Ltd (Shenzhen Huamei) is BRE Line’s designated service provider in China.  Hong Kong-based BRE International Logistics Corporation HK Limited (BRE HK) is BRE Line’s “branch” in Hong Kong, and BRE Line’s managing director, Aslani Moghaddam, is a 50-percent owner of BRE HK.  China-based Qiu Xingyu is the registered director of BRE HK.  Qiu Xingyu is also the majority owner of China-based Shenzhen Bositong Logistics Co Ltd (Shenzhen Bositong), and the ultimate beneficial owner and supervisor of Bositong Supply Chain Shenzhen Co Ltd (Bositong Supply Chain). 

BRE Line is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 for having provided, or attempted to provide, financial, material, technological or other support for, or goods or services in support of, MODAFL. 

Aslani Moghaddam is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 for acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, BRE Line. 

Shenzhen Huamei is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 for having provided, or attempted to provide, financial, material, technological or other support for, or goods or services in support of, BRE Line. 

BRE HK is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 for being owned or controlled by, or acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, BRE Line. 

Qiu Xingyu is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 for acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, BRE HK.  Shenzhen Bositong and Bositong Supply Chain are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 for being owned or controlled by, or acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Qiu Xingyu.

Treasury Targets Iranian Cyber Actors Behind Critical Infrastructure Intrusions and Digital Asset Theft

The MOIS directs several networks of cyber threat actors involved in cyber espionage in support of Iran’s political goals, which include harming American civilians. 

Since at least summer 2023, Mojtaba Ghal’eh-Kuhi and Behzad Mesri have led a group of Iranian malicious cyber actors that includes Keyvan Fayyaz Ghareh Blagh, Saber Shahbazi Balujeh, Mohammad Reza Kadkhoda’i, and Arman Kahzadian.  This group frequently conducts computer network exploitations on behalf, or for the benefit, of Iran’s MOIS.

On March 23, 2018, OFAC designated Behzad Mesri pursuant to E.O. 13694, as amended by E.O. 13757, for his role in the targeting and attempted extortion of a U.S. media and entertainment company.  Additionally, on February 13, 2019, OFAC designated Behzad Mesri pursuant to E.O. 13606 for having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, the OFAC-designated Net Peygard Samavat Company.

Keyvan Fayyaz Ghareh Blagh, Saber Shahbazi Balujeh, and Mohammad Reza Kadkhoda’i conduct the majority of this group’s network compromise activity.  Since at least late 2023, these three individuals have successfully compromised and exfiltrated data from multiple U.S. companies in various critical infrastructure sectors, including energy companies, defense contractors, healthcare institutions, information technology companies, and financial institutions.  Additionally, in summer 2024, they compromised multiple local, state, and federal government offices across the United States.

The members of this group are also heavily motivated by personal enrichment and greed, leading some members to prioritize their own profits over operations that benefit the MOIS.  This has driven some of the group to target Iranian companies.  In spring 2025, Mojtaba Ghal’eh-Kuhi and Saber Shahbazi Balujeh compromised and exfiltrated data from an Iranian telecommunications company.

Additionally, Arman Kahzadian has focused on digital asset heists.  In summer 2023, Arman Kahzadian illicitly gained control of a wallet that held over $30,000 worth of Bitcoin.

Keyvan Fayyaz Ghareh Blagh, Saber Shahbazi Balujeh, Mohammad Reza Kadkhoda’i, and Mojtaba Ghal’eh-Kuhi are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended, for being responsible for or complicit in, or having engaged in, directly or indirectly, cyber-enabled activities originating from, or directed by persons located, in whole or in substantial part, outside the United States that are reasonably likely to result in, or have materially contributed to, a threat to the national security, foreign policy, or economic health or financial stability of the United States and that have the purpose of or involve harming, or otherwise compromising the provision of services by, a computer or network of computers that support one or more entities in a critical infrastructure sector.

Arman Kahzadian is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended, for being responsible for or complicit in, or having engaged in, directly or indirectly, the receipt or use for commercial or competitive advantage or private financial gain, or by a commercial entity, outside the United States of funds or economic resources, intellectual property, proprietary or business confidential information, personal identifiers, or financial information misappropriated through cyber-enabled means, knowing they have been misappropriated, where the misappropriation of such funds or economic resources, intellectual property, proprietary or business confidential information, personal identifiers, or financial information is reasonably likely to result in, or has materially contributed to, a threat to the national security, foreign policy, or economic health or financial stability of the United States.

Treasury Targets Iran’s Shadow Fleet Shipping Network and Oil Revenue Facilitators

Sanctioned Iranian actors, to include those associated with its armed forces, rely on a vast network of shipping facilitators in multiple jurisdictions to enable the transportation and delivery of Iranian crude oil to markets in East Asia, to include vessel brokers, bunkering service providers, and financial intermediaries.

UAE-based Syrian national Mohammad Ahmed Suhil Fattouh (Fattouh), also known as “Captain Hamzah,” has for years served as a broker for shadow fleet vessels on behalf of multiple sanctioned parties, including the IRGC-QF-associated Al-Qatirji Company, Iran’s National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC), and the oil sales arm of Iran’s Armed Forces General Staff, Sepehr Energy Jahan Nama Pars Company.  Fattouh operates the Dubai-based company Amdeh Ship Management and Operation Co. L.L.C, through which he conducts his operations.

Mohammad Ahmed Suhil Fattouh is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, NIOC.  Amdeh Ship Management and Operation Co. L.L.C is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, for being owned, controlled, or directed by, directly or indirectly, Mohammad Ahmed Suhil Fattouh.

Like Fattouh, UAE-based Ukrainian national Ivan Obukhov (Obukhov) has for years served as a broker for Iranian shadow fleet vessels.  Obukhov has facilitated Iranian oil shipments for the Iranian military and its proxies.  Since 2023, Obukhov has processed over 100 million dollars’ worth of cryptocurrency payments to facilitate oil sales on behalf of the IRGC-QF.  In coordination with Fattouh, Obukhov has also purchased vessels later used for sanctions evasion activities.  Obukhov serves as the owner and general manager of UAE-based Foscom FZE, which he purchased in 2022.

Ivan Obukhov is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, the IRGC-QF.  Foscom FZE is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, for being owned, controlled, or directed by, directly or indirectly, Ivan Obukhov.

Singapore-based Azure Shipping PTE. LTD. (Azure Shipping) has worked with the National Iranian Tanker Company (NITC) to facilitate ship-to-ship services to U.S. sanctioned vessels.  Singapore-based Mansoor Tayabbhai Gandhi (Gandhi) is the previous owner of Azure Shipping and is the current owner of Trans Arctic Global Marine Services Pte. Ltd, which was designated pursuant to E.O. 13902 for operating in the petroleum sector of the Iranian economy.  Gandhi is the owner of Singapore-based Arc Chartering Pte. Ltd. and Hong Kong-based Sky Oil and Gas Asia Limited.

Azure Shipping PTE. LTD. and Mansoor Tayabbhai Gandhi are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13902 for operating in the petroleum sector of the Iranian economy.  Arc Chartering Pte. Ltd. and Sky Oil and Gas Asia Limited are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13902 for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Mansoor Tayabbhai Gandhi.

Since at least 2023, Hong Kong-based Shipoil Limited and its sister companies, Dubai-based Shipoil FZCO and Ship Fuels and Trade DMCC—operated by Greek nationals Almpertos “Alberto” Tsoris and Georgios “George” Tsoris—coordinated with sanctioned Iranian actors, including Persian Gulf Petrochemical Industries Commercial Company (PGPICC), Triliance Petrochemical Co. Ltd., NITC, and the network of Iranian oil shipping magnate Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani (Shamkhani), to provide bunkering services to vessels carrying Iranian crude oil and other petroleum products.  For example, in 2026, Alberto Tsoris coordinated with NITC and the Shamkhani network via Shipoil FZCO and Ship Fuels and Trade DMCC to provide bunkering to the sanctioned oil tanker MEDNA (IMO: 9281683), formerly known as the ANTHEA and SIRI, a vessel which has carried crude oil for Iran’s Armed Forces General Staff. 

Similarly, George Tsoris used Shipoil FZCO and Ship Fuels and Trade DMCC to provide vessel bunkering services to a mix of subsidiaries and front companies for the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL).  In 2026, UAE-based Unique Oasis Shipping Services LLC and Target Horizon Shipping LLC collaborated with Shipoil Limited and Ship Fuels and Trade DMCC to provide hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of bunkering services to an IRISL-linked vessel.  In mid-2026, George Tsoris provided bunkering services to the sanctioned IRISL vessel BEHTA in coordination with IRISL subsidiary, UAE-based Good Luck Shipping LLC, and Unique Oasis Shipping Services LLC.

Shipoil Limited, Shipoil FZCO, and Ship Fuels and Trade DMCC operate within the same corporate network, share company leadership, and transfer funds between themselves.  Shipoil Limited has transferred millions of dollars to Shipoil FZCO.

Almpertos Tsoris, Shipoil FZCO, and Ship Fuels and Trade DMCC are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13902 for operating in the petroleum sector of the Iranian economy.  Shipoil Limited is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13902 for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, Shipoil FZCO.

Georgios Tsoris, Good Luck Shipping LLC, Unique Oasis Shipping Services LLC, and Target Horizon Shipping LLC are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 for having provided, or attempted to provide, financial, material, technological, or other support for, or goods or services in support of, IRISL.

Today’s action reflects OFAC’s ongoing close collaboration with Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). 

OFAC Sanctions Shamkhani-Linked Commodities Trader and Global Subsidiaries

Singapore-based commodities trader Wellbred Capital PTE. LTD. and its subsidiaries,

UAE-based Wellbred Trading FZCO and Switzerland-based Wellbred Trading SA, collectively form a commodities trading business specializing in oil, naphtha, liquified petroleum gas, and other petrochemicals—all products commonly transported by the network of Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani (Shamkhani).  Shamkhani built Wellbred as a company outside the network’s Iranian business, though Shamkhani is ultimately responsible for Wellbred’s operations.

Wellbred Trading SA, as part of its efforts to appear as a legitimate company, has sought out strategic investments in Europe in the field of alternative energy.  In 2024, Wellbred Trading SA purchased France-based cooking oil refinery La Nivernaise de Raffinage SAS.

Wellbred Capital PTE. LTD. is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13902 for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani.  Wellbred Trading FZCO and Wellbred Trading SA are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13902 for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Wellbred Capital PTE. LTD.  La Nivernaise de Raffinage SAS is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13902 for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Wellbred Trading SA.

Treasury Targets Shadow Fleet Vessels Moving Millions of Barrels of Iranian Oil and Petroleum Products

Treasury is also taking action today against multiple shadow fleet vessels responsible for the unauthorized transport of millions of barrels of Iranian crude oil and petroleum products.  Iran’s shadow fleet provides an essential lifeline to the Iranian regime, which relies on the sale of oil and other petroleum products to provide vital revenue to fund its military, among other necessities.

• Botswana-flagged liquified petroleum gas (LPG) tanker SIFRA (IMO 9185346), owned by Marshall Islands-registered Sifra Shipping Company, has transported hundreds of thousands of barrels of Iranian LPG and ethylene since 2025, for reexport to third countries. 
   
• Cameroon-flagged LPG tanker G SILVER (IMO 9139696), owned by Hong Kong-registered Vienna Shipping Co., Limited, has transported hundreds of thousands of barrels of Iranian petroleum products to Southeast Asia, including Bangladesh, in 2026, for onward shipment to third countries.
   
• Vanuatu-flagged crude oil tanker QUANTUM HOPE (IMO 9233650), owned by Hong Kong-registered Riqueza Group Ltd, has transported millions of barrels of Iranian oil to China since early 2026.
   
• Gambia-flagged crude oil tanker VOYAGE ELITE (IMO 9286138), owned, operated, and managed by China-based Lilimoon Navigation Inc, has transported millions of barrels of Iranian oil to China since 2026.
   
• Gambia-flagged TELA (IMO 9189110), owned, operated, and managed by United Kingdom-based Estanica Trading Ltd, has transported hundreds of thousands of barrels of Iranian crude oil.
   

The following companies are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13902 for operating in the petroleum sector of the Iranian economy:
 

• Sifra Shipping Company;
• Vienna Shipping Co., Limited;
• Riqueza Group Ltd;
• Lilimoon Navigation Inc; and
• Estanica Trading Ltd.
   

The following vessels are being identified as blocked property of the previously identified blocked persons:
 

• SIFRA (Sifra Shipping Company);
• G SILVER (Vienna Shipping Co., Limited);
• QUANTUM HOPE (Riqueza Group Ltd);
• VOYAGE ELITE (Lilimoon Navigation Inc); and
• TELA (Estanica Trading Ltd).
   

SANCTIONS IMPLICATIONS

As a result of today’s action, all property and interests in property of the designated or blocked persons described above that are in the United States or in the possession or control of U.S. persons are blocked and must be reported to OFAC.  In addition, any entities that are owned, directly or indirectly, individually or in the aggregate, 50 percent or more by one or more blocked persons are also blocked.  Unless authorized by OFAC, or exempt, OFAC’s regulations generally prohibit all transactions by U.S. persons or within (or transiting) the United States that involve any property or interests in property of blocked persons. 

Violations of U.S. sanctions may result in the imposition of civil or criminal penalties on U.S. and foreign persons.  OFAC may impose civil penalties for sanctions violations on a strict liability basis.  OFAC’s Economic Sanctions Enforcement Guidelines provide more information regarding OFAC’s enforcement of U.S. economic sanctions.  In addition, financial institutions and other persons may risk exposure to sanctions for engaging in certain transactions or activities involving designated or otherwise blocked persons.  The prohibitions include the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services by, to, or for the benefit of any designated or blocked person, or the receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services from any such person.  Non-U.S. persons are also prohibited from causing or conspiring to cause U.S. persons to wittingly or unwittingly violate U.S. sanctions, as well as engaging in conduct that evades U.S. sanctions.  Individuals located in the U.S. or abroad who provide information about sanctions violations to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network’s whistleblower incentive program may be eligible for awards if the information they provide leads to a successful enforcement action that results in monetary penalties exceeding $1,000,000.  In addition, financial institutions and other persons may risk exposure to sanctions for engaging in certain transactions or activities with designated or otherwise blocked persons.

Furthermore, engaging in certain transactions involving the persons designated today may risk the imposition of secondary sanctions on participating foreign financial institutions.  OFAC can prohibit or impose strict conditions on opening or maintaining, in the United States, a correspondent account or a payable-through account of a foreign financial institution that knowingly conducts or facilitates any significant transaction on behalf of a person who is designated pursuant to the relevant authority.

The power and integrity of OFAC sanctions derive not only from OFAC’s ability to designate and add persons to the SDN List, but also from its willingness to remove persons from the SDN List consistent with the law.  The ultimate goal of sanctions is not to punish, but to bring about a positive change in behavior.  For information concerning the process for seeking removal from an OFAC list, including the SDN List, or to submit a request, please refer to OFAC’s guidance on Filing a Petition for Removal from an OFAC List.

Click here for more information on the persons designated today.

Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Rebuilds the U.S. Navy and America’s Shipbuilding Industrial Base
 

The White House | August 13, 2026

 

TRANSFORMING U.S. SHIPBUILDING: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed a National Security Presidential Memorandum to fix critical long-term issues in Navy shipbuilding and ship repair programs and restore capacity and competition to the maritime industrial base.



• The Memorandum directs the Secretary of War to replace the Advanced Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch Systems and the Advanced Weapons Elevators with traditional steam and hydraulic systems during the construction of CVN-81.
  
  
• The Memorandum directs the Department of War to pursue more direct investments in the American shipbuilding industrial base based off of the successful “Finland model,” which was first employed with the Coast Guard’s medium icebreaker program.
  
  
• As foreign shipbuilders make substantial and durable investments into America’s shipyards and train an all-American workforce for the jobs they create, they will be temporarily permitted to build up to two ships in their parent shipyards that will be delivered to bridge gaps on a quick turnaround, while additional ships will be built in revitalized American shipyards.
  
  
• The Memorandum directs the Secretary of War to establish a fifth Naval shipyard, the first in over 80 years, to increase the Nation’s submarine and aircraft carrier repair capacity. 
  
  
• The Memorandum directs the Secretary of War to establish a Component Repair Center capable of holding, repairing, and refurbishing critical components for all current major submarine programs.
  
  
• The Memorandum directs the Secretary of War to undertake a full review, reform, and reorganization of Naval Sea Systems Command to address chronic challenges in American naval shipbuilding.
  
  

ADDRESSING PERSISTENT FAILURES IN SHIPBUILDING: President Trump is revitalizing America’s shipbuilding industry, which is essential to the national security and economic prosperity of the United States. 



• The U.S. Navy has experienced several shipbuilding setbacks stemming from overly complex designs and iterative design change procedures, which have resulted in cost growth, delays, and cancellations.  
  
  
• A lack of capacity and competition has resulted in large backlogs of orders across six major Navy shipbuilding programs and a commercial shipbuilding sector that is not globally competitive.
  
  
• An atrophied shipbuilding industrial base, coupled with diminished adjacent supplier bases, has expanded delays and increased costs.  
  
  

RESTORING AMERICA’S MARITIME DOMINANCE: President Trump is decisively ushering in a new Maritime Golden Age, expanding commercial shipbuilding capacity, building a resilient workforce, and strengthening alliances. 



• During the March 2025 joint address to Congress, President Trump promised to “resurrect the American shipbuilding industry, including commercial shipbuilding and military shipbuilding.”
  
  
• President Trump directed the largest increase in Naval strength since President Reagan, committing to the submarines, destroyers, aircraft carriers, and battleships the nation needs, and directed the largest investments into the U.S. Coast Guard in history.
  
  
• President Trump established a new Office of Maritime and Industrial Capacity at the National Security Council in the White House to prioritize American Maritime Dominance.
  
  
• In April 2025, President Trump signed a historic Executive Order to restore American Maritime Dominance, strengthening the nation’s economic and national security.
  
  
• President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts included nearly $9 billion to build a series of heavy, medium, and light arctic security cutters (ASCs).
  
  
• In October 2025, President Trump signed a Presidential Memorandum to authorize the construction of up to four ASCs abroad to address urgent national security needs in the Arctic region.
  
  
• In February 2026, the White House released its Maritime Action Plan, which expands the Maritime Industrial Base to include investment and expansion of commercial and defense shipbuilding capabilities, component supply chains, ship repair and marine transportation capabilities, port infrastructure, and the adjacent workforce. 

 

 

 

Putin Deploys Nuclear Force To Iran Amid U.S. War;

Big Message To Trump Amid Mideast Conflict

Aug 9, 2026

Times Of India  (TOI)

Russia is sending its nuclear specialists back to Iran’s Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant after evacuating personnel during the U.S.-Iran conflict. Rosatom CEO Alexey Likhachev confirmed that the first five engineering specialists have already returned, taking the total number of Russian personnel at the site to 25. Rosatom plans to send several dozen more employees to Bushehr within the next two weeks and could increase its workforce to around 100 by autumn — but only if there is no fresh escalation between the United States and Iran. The move comes as construction continues on Bushehr’s Units 2 and 3. The nuclear facility has also been caught near the crossfire, with U.S. military strikes reportedly hitting areas close to the plant, although the main reactor structures were not directly hit.

------------------------------------------

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President Trump on Fox & Friends:
America’s Unrelenting Strength Keeps
Maximum Pressure on Iran

The White House | July 28, 2026

This morning on Fox & Friends, President Donald J. Trump delivered a clear, uncompromising update on U.S. operations against Iran. President Trump detailed total naval control of the Strait of Hormuz, unmatched U.S. intelligence and strike readiness, and a firm strategy that keeps maximum pressure on the Iranian regime while leaving the door open to a deal that serves American interests.
 

• President Trump underscored Iran’s bad-faith tactics in negotiations: â€œFor some reason, we can be in the midst of a beautiful discussion and they’ll come out and say, ‘We’re not talking’ or ‘we didn’t discuss nuclear.’ Well, that’s all we discussed because they’ll never have a nuclear weapon. They understand that.â€� (Watch)
   
• President Trump confirmed U.S. intelligence and readiness to act on Pickaxe Mountain: â€œBecause of Space Force, we have the greatest cameras in the world focused — we know exactly what’s going on. But no, I heard Bibi announce that. I said, ‘Why don’t you just tell it to me? Why do you have to announce it to the world?’ I know exactly what’s going on at Pickaxe. It’s not a big problem. We took out their nuclear sites and we’ll have to take out Pickaxe if we don’t make a deal. If we don’t make a deal, we’ll take it out very easily.â€� (Watch)
   
• President Trump addressed different perspectives while affirming his clear strategy: â€œYou have a lot of competing factions. You have a group of people that want it to be obliterated in the truest sense of the word, then you have a group that says, ‘This is actually a good time to make a deal for them. If they don’t make a deal, then I go back and I finish the job’ — but that’s going to take them forever to rebuild. Already, it’ll take them many years to ever to rebuild.â€� (Watch)
   
• President Trump detailed America’s overwhelming capacity to dismantle Iranian infrastructure if necessary: â€œI could take out most of their bridges in less than an hour — less than an hour — but it takes them ten years to build a bridge. Bridges take the longest and power plants are second. I can knock out the power plants; within one day, all of their power plants would be gone… I think about 91 million people without power, without bridges — they have to live — and it’s a very, very delicate balance. So, I think we have a very strong position right now. They know I’m going to do that if they don’t make a deal… If I can avoid doing that, I’d like to do that.â€� (Watch)
   
• President Trump contrasted decades of prior inaction with his decisive leadership: â€œFor 50 years, other Presidents should have done this job and they never did anything. Obama actually paid them billions of dollars — the opposite! He thought he could bribe his way into friendship and they went out and tried to develop nuclear missiles and nuclear weapons from it… For 50 years, other Presidents should have done this job. It would have been a lot easier.â€� (Watch)
  
   
• President Trump asserted total U.S. control of the Strait of Hormuz: â€œWe have a blockade up there right now, and only ships that we want to get through get through. Iran doesn’t control the Strait. We control the Strait. Now, they can drop a couple of mines in there and screw things up, but we control the Strait. Our Navy is incredible; not one ship has gotten to Iran during any time where we had the blockade.â€� (Watch)
   
• President Trump emphasized the blockade’s effectiveness and zero tolerance for broken deals: â€œWe have a blockade that’s so powerful that nobody can get through. They tried, three or four of them tried over the last week. But we opened the blockade because we had the confines of a deal… then we put it back because they broke the deal. They break the deal. We cannot have them break deals anymore.â€� (Watch)

DESPITE US-IRAN STRIKE PAUSE

Israel, Saudi, Jordan, Iraq Attacked By Drones:
Tensions Explode Despite Pause In US-Iran Strikes

JULY 27, 2026

According to Times Now, on July 27, 2026, Reported that Israel, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Iraq reported drone attacks in their territory Monday amid a lull in US air strikes against Iran, after nearly two weeks of fighting between both sides. The Israel Defense Forces said Monday morning that it shot down two drones over the Jordan border, near the Dead Sea, adding that the drones did not cross into Israeli territory. Their origin was under investigation, the army said.

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President Trump’s Iran Agreement Is
America First in Action

The White House | June 19, 2026

President Donald J. Trump and Vice President JD Vance have secured a historic breakthrough by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Iran. Forged through decisive American strength, this agreement ensures Iran will never obtain a nuclear weapon, reopens the Strait of Hormuz to free navigation, and puts America First — rejecting the failed policies of appeasement, cash payoffs, and endless wars that have weakened the United States for decades.

Here’s what they’re saying:

Sen. John Barrasso: “@POTUS Trump forced Iran to the table from a position of American strength. He has been clear:

• Iran will not get a nuclear weapon
• They will not have a path to a weapon
• They are not going to be able to enrich uranium
  America is putting an end to the terrorism.�

 

Sen. Jim Banks: “Iran has been decimated. They know what will happen if they don’t hold-up their end of the deal and there will be hell to pay. Under @POTUS, we operate with Maximum Pressure and Peace Through Strength.�

Sen. Marsha Blackburn: “President @realDonaldTrump has shown time and time again on the world stage that he is determined to find peace and that his first priority will always be to put America first.�

Sen. Katie Britt: “There is no one better at making a deal than @POTUS. I appreciate this Administration’s efforts to hold the Iranian regime accountable and ensure they can never obtain a nuclear weapon.�

Sen. Deb Fischer: “Iran is weak right now, and @POTUS is negotiating from a position of strength. I support the administration’s efforts to keep Iran from ever obtaining a nuclear weapon—which is crucial to keeping America and the world safe.�

Sen. Lindsey Graham: “[I]t is my opinion that signing the MOU will be beneficial to the United States, in as much as the Strait of Hormuz will begin to open, and the hostilities with Iran will stop. Whether or not the United States can reach an acceptable, verifiable deal with Iran regarding its nuclear program and other issues is yet to be determined, but I see little downside to trying. The economic stability that comes from opening up the Strait and the cessation of hostilities could create a pathway to peace well beyond the Iranian conflict. The expansion of the Abraham Accords and normalizing relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel is President Trump’s and my ultimate goal. I think that is best achieved by creating economic stability for the United States, the region and the world, as well as the cessation of hostilities. The signing of the MOU is an essential step to make that happen and thus it is worthwhile.�

Sen. Bill Hagerty: “Where President Obama paid Iran for their nuclear program, @POTUS is making them pay to end it. After we decimated their military and nuclear capabilities, the world’s most infamous state sponsor of terrorism is finally coming to the table—this time, on President Trump’s terms.�

Sen. Ron Johnson: “The ayatollahs declared war on the West 47 years ago. They are fanatics who have been engaging in and preparing for war all that time. President Trump recognizes the reality that the Iranian people were not able to overthrow the regime and that Americans would not support a ground war to defeat it. So @POTUS made a deal to open the Strait of Hormuz to limit economic damage and carefully monitor the regime’s behavior moving forward.�

Sen. John Kennedy: “Let’s give peace a chance. I think that’s all the President is saying. I read the document last night, and I’ve heard all of the speculation, and what about this, and what about that, and what if this happens, one, if that doesn’t happen, we’ll know in 60 days. Let’s give us 60 days to give peace a chance, and that’s all he’s saying.�

Sen. James Lankford: “For 47 years, Iran has attacked the United States, our allies, and every American they could find in the region. The people of Iran live under the oppression of the regime, and the United States has spent billions of dollars each year defending ourselves from the threat. For over four decades, every president has attempted to resolve the multitude of issues with Iran, but President Trump is the first to use both diplomacy and force to bring the terrorist regime to the table. Let’s pray for peace and an end to the nuclear threat from the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism.�

Sen. Roger Marshall: “Americans deserve affordable gas and groceries, and this agreement accomplishes just that. Beyond that, and more importantly, Americans are safer today than they were before. This regime has never signed a document that said that they would not have any nuclear weapons in the past — that was our goal out of all this. This regime is responsible for the deaths of over 1,000 Americans, they cause the rest of the world to live in fear, so in so many ways, the world is safer, Americans are safer. The Strait is open again, and gas prices are plummeting — so we think it is a great day here in America.�

Sen. Bernie Moreno: “President Trump is the only one who had the guts to take decisive action and eliminate a threat we’ve faced for 47 years. Now he’s secured a historic deal that allows for peace and prosperity. Peace through strength�

Sen. Rand Paul: “The same voices now attacking Trump’s Iran deal are the architects of every failed intervention of my lifetime. This war must end. I stand with President Trump on peace.�

Sen. Eric Schmitt: “President Trump was very clear from the get-go what the mission here was, which was to ensure that Iran would never have a nuclear weapon. They have no ability to do that — and they’re signing on the dotted line now for the first time that they’re not going to do that… We need to make sure, obviously, we’re verifying all of this — but the President has pulled off something here that most experts six months ago wouldn’t have thought was possible, and I think it’s good for the American people.�

Sen. Tim Scott: “Once again, @POTUS proves he is the Dealmaker in Chief. When America leads with strength, we get results. A major victory for American security and global stability!�

Sen. Tommy Tuberville: “As per usual, the Legacy Media are trying to undermine the administration. If there’s one thing @POTUS has shown time and time again, it’s to NEVER bet against Donald J. Trump. President Trump made history in 2020 with the Abraham Accords, and I have no doubt that he will once again secure PEACE for America and our allies.�

Rep. Robert Aderholt: “I’m thankful to hear that the United States and Iran have reached an agreement. The deal will reopen the Strait of Hormuz and require Iran to give up its nuclear program. Unlike the agreement reached under the Obama administration, this deal will not allow Iran to continue enriching uranium and build up the components necessary to build a nuclear weapon. I applaud President Trump for his leadership and the brave men and women of our Armed Forces who have held the line.�

Rep. Mark Alford: “Let me be clear—this started 47 years ago with the Iranian hostage crisis, the fall of that regime, and the rise of leaders in Iran who have been hostile to the United States and Western civilization ever since. And thank God we finally have a president who is standing up to them—with strength, with resolve, & putting Americans first.�

Rep. Buddy Carter: “FORTY-SEVEN years of concessions to the Iranian Terrorist Regime and SEVEN U.S. presidents later… Only ONE President, @realDonaldTrump, is ensuring Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon. America and the world are safer because of it – PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH!�

Rep. Monica De La Cruz: “Thank you, President Trump, for your tireless work to deliver this historic deal and secure peace worldwide�

Rep. Chuck Edwards: “This agreement has the potential to bring greater stability to the Middle East, a win for America, our allies, and the world.�

Rep. Lance Gooden: “President Trump knows that peace with Iran comes through strength, not pallets of cash. The Iranian regime will NEVER have a nuclear weapon or enriched uranium under a Trump deal. @POTUS’s pursuit of lasting peace in the Middle East means a safer world and a stronger economy at home!�

Rep. Abe Hamadeh: “@POTUS has made it crystal clear: he wants this Iran conflict over, & he’s been working tirelessly to de-escalate & bring the parties to the table. Never underestimate the man who mastered ‘The Art of the Deal.’ President Trump always puts America’s interests first.�

Rep. Andy Harris: “A remarkable day for America and the world. President Trump secured a historic agreement with Iran, bringing an end to the conflict and demonstrating once again that peace is achieved through strength.�

Rep. Diana Harshbarger: “Peace through Strength�

Rep. Wesley Hunt: “Take it from someone who actually fought in these wars. Getting the Gulf states aligned against Iran’s nuclear ambitions is a game changer. And that’s the key point: the world wants peace, but peace is only possible when rogue regimes understand there are consequences for their actions. In just a matter of months, President Trump brought Iran to a position it never imagined it would be in. Its military capabilities are shattered, its leverage evaporated, and its leaders were forced to confront reality. The result is an agreement designed to ensure Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon for the foreseeable future. American strength achieved the outcome. Thanks to President Trump’s resolve.�

Rep. John James: “The Iran deal is straightforward, common sense leadership from @POTUS. I flew Apache helicopters in Iraq knowing Iran was funding the networks shooting at us. I do not take this lightly. President Trump’s deal is simple: meet every condition or see nothing. No pallets of cash. No secret side deals. Nothing like Obama’s disastrous JCPOA. Choose peace and prosperity or stay in the darkness. Period. It is peace through strength and putting American interests first. By blocking out the noise from grifters and self-serving frauds, this deal will go down as bringing fundamental change to the Middle East. I stand with President Trump. Always have. Always will.�

Rep. Jim Jordan: “No nuclear weapon for Iran. No open borders. No unchecked taxpayer fraud. Why is this controversial for Democrats?�

Rep. David Kustoff: “While negotiations are still ongoing, I remain confident that @POTUS will fulfill his promise and ensure that Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon.�

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna: “The Iran peace deal is good for all parties involved. Please stop attacking one another. Details from WH will be out soon. ;� It will be WAY better than the Obama ‘deal.’ No need to attack one another.�

Rep. Brian Mast: “@POTUS has earned the deference that he will nail Iran to the wall by leaving IRGC General Soleimani in pieces on a tarmac, conducting Operation Midnight Hammer, leveling Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear sites, conducting Operation Epic Fury for 60 days, closing the entire Iranian coastline, destroying hundreds of billions of dollars of Iranian military infrastructure, leaving their Navy at the bottom of the sea, taking out their Air Force, erasing drone manufacturing, and eliminating their generals, nuclear scientists, and the Ayatollah. He hammered them for striking us repeatedly while every Congressional Democrat and some Republicans cried ‘run away and remove all forces from responding to Iran.’ Every Democrat and Republican who voted over and over again to remove hostilities from the region have earned the right to shut the hell up on this one.�

Rep. Lisa McClain: “President Trump made sure Iran has NO PATH to a nuclear weapon.�

Rep. Dan Meuser: “President Trump has done something no other President could: make Iran commit to never attempt to possess a nuclear weapon. He did it without sending piles of taxpayer dollars to Tehran, like his predecessors.�

Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks: “I am glad to see this conflict come to an end. My hope is that lasting peace is restored in the region, that energy prices continue to fall for American families, and that Iran is never again a nuclear threat to the United States or our allies.�

Rep. Cory Mills: “President Trump just secured a historic deal, and it’s nothing like the Obama JCPOA. No pallets of cash and no blank timelines- just real metrics and real accountability. This is a major win for the United States, and for peace�

Rep. Barry Moore: “His critics say he can’t do it, and President Trump proves them wrong every single time. God bless our great President!�

Rep. Riley Moore: “PEACE. PRESIDENT. No one else could have done this. No one else would have the courage. God bless Donald J. Trump!�

Rep. Jimmy Patronis: “The deal with Iran is a major victory for peace and security. @POTUS once again demonstrated that strong leadership and American strength can deliver results that make our nation and the world safer.�

Rep. Marlin Stutzman: “@POTUS made it clear at the G7 summit — IRAN WILL NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON! Grateful for President Trump’s leadership in these negotiations, and glad to see that Iran has finally made the smart decision to establish peace.�

Rep. Tony Wied: “President Trump has made it clear that he does not want endless wars in the Middle East. I completely agree. Yet as soon as a peace deal emerges, the swamp attacks it. They either want to see America fail or want to see endless wars continue. I want to see this war come to an end and I am grateful to have a President who is pursing peace through strength to protect our country and the American people.�

Rep. Roger Williams: “@POTUS’s U.S.-Iran Peace Deal is a welcome step forward. This agreement creates a path toward greater stability in the region. Reopening the Strait of Hormuz will help restore global commerce and bring greater certainty to energy markets as negotiations continue. Our goal remains clear: Peace Through Strength�

Rep. Rudy Yakym: “Peace requires strength. Protecting Americans means making hard decisions, and striking Iran was one of them. President Trump had the courage to act where presidents of both parties only made promises. He has been unequivocal for decades: Iran will never obtain a nuclear weapon. Today, he kept that promise. And Americans and Hoosiers will be safer because of President Trump’s resolve and the deal reached today.�

Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich: “President Trump has achieved something many thought impossible: forcing the Iranian dictatorship away from the Obama-Biden path of appeasement without committing America to a massive ground war.�

Former Deputy National Security Advisor KT McFarland: “I know it’s not popular to say this, but Trump’s Iran deal is brilliant.  No nukes, Strait reopened, US economy soars. Iran has path forward – if they behave. If not, boom, we resume military and econ punishment.â€�

Atlantic Council Vice President for Geostrategy and Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security Senior Director: “Iran has posed one of the greatest threats to US national security for decades, and US military action over the past year (Midnight Hammer and Epic Fury) has succeeded in degrading Iran’s nuclear program, conventional military, political leadership, and defense-industrial capacity. This is a significant achievement. The major downside cost has been Iran’s threats to the Strait of Hormuz and the US retaliatory blockade, which have choked off global energy flows, leading to higher energy prices and a global economic shock. The deal announced this weekend promises to alleviate this economic pressure. I suspect it will hold because both sides have a strong economic incentive to get energy flowing to global markets. Trump may succeed, therefore, in defanging one of the world’s most dangerous terrorist states in exchange for several months of higher energy prices. That is a good trade… Iran’s nuclear program no longer exists, and if Tehran tries to rebuild, the US can simply bomb again.�

Former Acting Director of National Intelligence Richard Grenell: “Facts: Obama didn’t get rid of the Iranian leadership, didn’t lay a finger on their military assets but trusted them with a deal worth billion$. Trump got rid of the Iranian leadership, devastated their military and nuclear program and then started over with a diplomatic deal that will secure America’s future. This is how it is done. We’ve never had a President mixing military action and diplomacy so seamlessly.�

Will Chamberlain: “The key difference between this deal and the JCPOA is that we just obliterated the bulk of Iranian military capabilities as well as the bulk of the Iranian defense industrial base. When Obama handed pallets of cash to the Iranians in the JCPOA, they were able to put that money to work immediately churning out munitions and funding their proxies… [T]he strategic position of America and its allies is stronger now than it was in February vis-a-vis Iran. If you don’t think so, think about how much of our senior leadership, ships, planes, personnel, and defense industrial base you would trade for some cash. Not much, IMO.�

Commentator Steve Deace: “This is the proper strategy. We don’t have the resolve for a regime change war, and never did. Absolutely no critical mass of the American people wants to get bogged down in another attempt at regime change in the Middle East. Notice no one critical of this pause and wanting us to go further has told you who would run the country instead, because no one knows… Besides, we have the capability to go back and mow the lawn there again and again when (not if) the Regime acts up. Trump has already shown he’s willing to spank them harder than any previous president the last two years now. So no, this isn’t like other Iran deals at all. They’ve already suffered heavy leadership casualties they never had to before. And we will inflict some more when (not if) they again prove they’re the demoniacs they’ve already proven to be. There’s not always a cut and dried solution in this world, especially when dealing with Islamic radicalism. But what is cut and dried is we are on an existential cliff here at home. To the point if a bullet doesn’t miss Trump’s brain by barely a centimeter two years ago, we don’t even want to contemplate how different things would be right now.�

Fox Business Network Anchor David Asman: “You have to put this in perspective. We’re so much better off now; a year ago when oil was about the same as it is now, the world was a lot less safe.�

Fox Business Network Contributor Phil Flynn: “This could really issue in a new era of lower prices. People don’t realize the threat that Iran posed to the global oil market for 47 years. It added to the cost of gasoline, it added to the cost of diesel, mainly because they were a threat. Insurance rates, you name it, terror threats, wars — that all added to the cost of oil. And if the market can believe — and I’m hopeful that will happen — that Iran will give up their nuclear weapons, that’s going to take away a huge threat from the region. If they quit giving their neighbors a hard time, we could see prices stay low for a very long period of time.�

Heritage Foundation National Security Senior Research Fellow Steve Yates: “[Iran has] definitely been degraded beyond where they were entering the JCPOA or the Iran deal of the Obama Administration… There’s a lot of context that’s different.�

Fox News Channel Host Jesse Watters: “Here’s the bottom line: [Iran] will never have a nuclear weapon, the Strait is opened, the Ayatollah is dead, their military is whipped, and we did it in three months with no ground troops. And Mohammad is not getting a penny until he performs. And none of these pennies are even ours. And as a bonus, the United States is now the world’s biggest energy exporter. And hopefully, fingers crossed, we re-wired the Middle East so they make love, not war, and we don’t have to babysit them.�

America First Policy Institute: “No administration has been positioned to end nearly five decades of terror as the Trump Administration. In just 107 days since the launch of Operation Epic Fury, American military forces have obliterated the Iranian navy, eliminated their air capabilities, and ensured that Iran can no longer arm their proxies’ capabilities. We commend the effort to finalize a 60-day Memorandum of Understanding with the Iranian regime, an important step toward ensuring that Iran cannot obtain a nuclear weapon and no longer threaten the American people. This breakthrough was made possible by the Administration’s unprecedented military and economic pressure, particularly through Operations Midnight Hammer and Epic Fury. We also recognize the important role of our regional partners in bringing about this diplomatic breakthrough.�

Patrick Bet-David: “I predicted the President would have this deal done by June 14th. This was never going to be a long war. Congratulations to the President and his team for getting this done by his birthday. Happy 80th Birthday to @realDonaldTrump�

G7 Leaders: “We recognize the breakthrough and the opportunity that currently exist in the Middle East. We welcome the announcement of a deal between the United States and Iran, secured under the strong leadership of President Trump, with the support of mediating countries, which provides an historic opportunity to prevent Iran from acquiring any nuclear weapon and tackling the threats related to its regional and ballistic activities. We support and are ready to contribute to its implementation.�

Joint Statement from Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Cyprus, Dominican Republic, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Japan, Latvia, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, and the United Kingdom: “We warmly welcome the announcement of the memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran. We congratulate the United States, the Iranian government and all those involved, including Pakistan, Qatar and all other mediators, on this diplomatic breakthrough. This is a moment of opportunity to restore regional stability and stabilise the global economy.�

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer: “I warmly welcome today’s agreement reached between the United States and Iran. This is a hugely important step forward in ending the war, ensuring regional stability and re-opening the Strait of Hormuz. I congratulate President Trump and the mediators from Pakistan, Qatar and elsewhere who have contributed to this breakthrough. We have long urged de-escalation and this is the progress we had hoped to see.�

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen: “In Évian, I congratulated President Trump on his agreement with Iran. We both agree that it should mean a definitive end to Iran’s nuclear programme. The Strait will reopen. Oil prices are falling. And that’s how diplomacy delivers.â€�

French President Emmanuel Macron: “President Trump signed tonight at Versailles the agreement between Iran and the United States. This agreement paves the way for lasting peace and allows the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. It is an important step in the right direction for our compatriots that will soon enable a decrease in energy prices.�

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz: “The agreement with Iran is an opportunity—for the stability of the region and for the global economy. The agreed-upon peace must now hold. We are united on this as @G7.�

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi: “On this occasion, both the United States and Iran have signed a memorandum, and the cessation of hostilities has been declared. As our country, we once again warmly welcome the fruition of the diplomatic efforts by the parties involved and the relevant countries that have played a mediating role. First and foremost, it is important that free and safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz be promptly resumed through the steady implementation of the memorandum by all parties. Furthermore, we continue to strongly hope that, through further negotiations between the United States and Iran in the future, a final agreement on Iran’s nuclear issue and other matters will be realized as soon as possible. At the G7 Evian Summit in which I participated, we also engaged in in-depth discussions on the situation in Iran; as our country, we will continue to closely coordinate with the international community, while making every diplomatic effort toward the realization of peace and stability across the entire Middle East region, thereby fulfilling our role.�

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif: “The Memorandum has been signed by honourable Presidents of both the countries and also endorsed by me as the mediator. The signing of this agreement at the highest level of the respective governments demonstrates the commitment of both sides to a diplomatic resolution of the conflict… I offer my heartfelt congratulations and sincere appreciation to the President of the United States, Donald J. Trump whose steadfast commitment to diplomacy and preference for peaceful resolution have once again helped end a conflict that could have led to devastating consequences for the region and beyond. I also commend the dedication and tireless efforts of the United States negotiating team, including J.D. Vance, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, for their invaluable contributions to this achievement.�

Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs: “The State of Qatar welcomes the electronic signing by the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on addressing outstanding issues between them, including the cessation of military operations and ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Qatar considers this a renewed affirmation of the two sides’ commitment to resolving their differences through negotiation and peaceful means as well as to enhancing prospects for sustainable peace and economic growth at both the regional and international levels.�

Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs: “Switzerland welcomes the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Iran yesterday by both countries. The signing is an important step toward de-escalation in the region.�

Spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres: “The Secretary-General welcomes the announcement that the United States and Iran have agreed on a peace deal that provides for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, as well as a framework for further negotiations.  This represents a critical step towards the peaceful settlement of the conflict.â€�

Pope Leo XIV: “I welcome with satisfaction the reaching of an agreement between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America, which will be signed on Friday, as an encouraging result of patient work in dialogue and negotiation. I express my gratitude to the countries that have worked to facilitate a meeting between the parties and to make this agreement possible. I hope that the agreement may help strengthen mutual trust, security, and stability in the Middle East, promoting paths of dialogue and cooperation among peoples.�