First Iranian Ships Cross US Blockade Zone Since Truce

Several Iranian vessels have crossed a US naval blockade zone without obstruction, marking the first such passage since Washington and Tehran reached a memorandum of understanding aimed at ending hostilities. Iran’s semi-official Fars News Agency reported the development on Tuesday.

According to the agency, at least three Iranian oil tankers and two cargo ships carrying essential goods have passed through the blockade area following the understanding between the two countries.

Fars reported that a large Iranian oil tanker of the VLCC class, along with another vessel used for transporting livestock, advanced from international waters toward Iranian ports.

The agency also said that another Iranian oil tanker crossed the Gulf of Oman and proceeded toward its designated export terminal. However, it did not provide further details about the vessel’s destination port.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who led mediation efforts between Washington and Tehran, announced early Monday that the United States and Iran had reached an understanding after prolonged and intensive negotiations. Under the arrangement, both sides agreed to an immediate and permanent halt to military operations across all fronts, including Lebanon.

The agreement is scheduled to be signed in Switzerland on Friday.

Source: Middle East Monitor (adapted)