Iran Calls US-Iran Deal a ‘Declaration of America’s Defeat’ amid Regional Talks

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, June 24, 2026

Iran called the recent Pakistan-mediated agreement aimed at resolving Middle East conflicts a sign of US defeat, highlighting its regional authority and proposing fees for passage through the Strait of Hormuz, though it later assured no tolls would be charged during a 60-day negotiation period. The deal's impact remains uncertain as US-Iran negotiations on nuclear and security issues continue, regional tensions persist with ongoing Israeli military actions in Lebanon, and separate talks between Iran and Gulf states are set to proceed independently.

Iran described the recent agreement aimed at ending conflict in the Middle East as a “declaration of America’s defeat,” following a deal brokered through Pakistan’s mediation. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran’s lead negotiator, emphasized on Wednesday that the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding resulted from Iran’s resistance and authority rather than external pressure. He asserted that regional security should be maintained by countries within the Middle East.

A notable point of contention has been Iran’s proposal to impose fees—termed “maritime service fees” rather than tolls—for passage through the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz. This plan has faced strong opposition from the United States. However, on Wednesday, former US President Donald Trump stated on his social media platform, Truth Social, that Iran informed Washington it would not charge any tolls, insurance costs, or other fees on ships passing through the strait. Trump did not clarify whether this assurance would hold beyond a 60-day negotiating period intended to lead to a lasting agreement.

Ghalibaf framed the future of the region in terms of cooperation rather than confrontation, underscoring coexistence over conflict. He also underscored the significance of peace in Lebanon as an integral component of a comprehensive US-Iranian settlement. Despite these developments, Israeli military forces remain active in parts of Lebanon following a ground incursion, and the Israeli Defense Forces conducted an air strike targeting Hezbollah members.

The timeline for resuming technical negotiations between Washington and Tehran remains uncertain, with Iran’s nuclear program continuing to represent a major sticking point. The head of the UN’s nuclear watchdog confirmed that inspections at Iranian sites “are going to happen,” although Iranian officials have indicated that no agreement has yet been finalized for such inspections.

In parallel with US-Iran talks, separate discussions on reconciliation between Gulf Cooperation Council countries and Iran are anticipated to take place in Saudi Arabia. These talks are proceeding independently of the US-Iran negotiations. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed Washington’s security commitments to Gulf allies, highlighting ongoing concerns about the regional implications of the deal, which does not address the Gulf states’ apprehensions regarding Iran’s missile development and support for proxy groups.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.