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Ali Faleh al-Zaidi, Erdogan Discuss Latest Developments by Phone

Ali Faleh al-Zaidi, Iraqi Prime Minister, and Erdogan, President of Turkey, spoke by phone to discuss relations between Baghdad and Ankara, the water issue, and the export of oil through Turkey.

The logo of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM)

CENTCOM Says US Forces End Maritime Blockade Enforcement on Iranian Ports

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Thursday that American forces have lifted the blockade on maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports, following a directive from the US President.

18/06/2026
Vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran, on Friday [Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

Vessel Traffic Resumes Through the Strait of Hormuz

Following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Iran and the United States, maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has resumed after months of disruption, with several vessels already transiting the corridor.

18/06/2026
U.S. President Donald Trump (C) addresses the media alongside US Secretary of State Marco Rubio (R) and US Commerce secretary Howard Lutnick (L) during a closing press conference at the G7 summit, in Evian, eastern France, on June 17, 2026. Photo: Mandel Ngan / AFP

Trump Signals Imminent Iran Deal, Urges 'Softer' Israel Approach in Lebanon 

Trump warned that the U.S. would resume airstrikes against Iran if Tehran fails to “honor” both the written and unwritten terms of their diplomatic agreement.

17/06/2026
Trilateral Meeting Between SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi, KRG President Nechirvan Barzani, and U.S. Envoy Tom Barrack in Erbil

Mazloum Abdi: We Discussed Integrating the SDF with the Syrian Government

The Commander-in-Chief of the SDF, Mazloum Abdi, said he met in Erbil with Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani and the U.S. Envoy Tom Barrack yesterday to discuss Syria’s political future and the integration of SDF forces with Damascus.

17/06/2026
A flag of Hezbollah flutters at the site of destroyed buildings following airstrikes in Beirut’s southern suburbs of Ghobeiry neighborhood, on March 5, 2026. Israel said it carried out strikes on Beirut targeting Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah on March 5, while Lebanese state media reported an Israeli drone strike killed a Hamas official. (Photo by AFP)

Hezbollah Says Israeli Withdrawal from Lebanon Key to Final US-Iran Nuclear Deal

Hezbollah said on Tuesday it believes Iran will not conclude a final nuclear agreement with the United States unless Israel withdraws from southern Lebanon

16/06/2026
A number of commercial ships while passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Photo: AP

First Iranian Ships Cross the Strait of Hormuz as Reopening Process Begins

The process of lifting maritime restrictions on Iran has entered its first practical phase, with five Iranian vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. According to the reported timeline, the strait is expected to reopen fully by Friday.

16/06/2026