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Last Updated:June 12, 2026, 17:06 IST
US-Iran war: The statement and conflicting narratives from both sides, explained

US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office on June 10. (AFP photo)
While US President Donald Trump announced that America had “ended the war with Iran" by reaching a “very strong memorandum of understanding", Tehran has explicitly denied that any final deal has been approved, calling reports of a completed settlement “speculative".
The situation remains highly fluid, marked by sharp diplomatic contradictions and ongoing volatility in the region.
The disconnect between the US and Iran
The reality of the situation is defined by deeply conflicting narratives from both sides:
Speaking to reporters and supporters, Trump claimed that a “great settlement" had been reached to stop the fighting, halt Iran’s nuclear pursuit, and reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Based on this, he abruptly called off a round of planned U.S. airstrikes. He indicated that a formal signing ceremony could take place in Europe as early as this weekend.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, quickly countered Trump’s statements, asserting that “nothing has been finalised" and that the country has not reached a final decision. While Iran acknowledges that large portions of a draft text have been discussed, it accuses Washington of shifting positions and adding “excessive demands".
What is the current status on the ground?
Despite talk of a breakthrough, true peace is far from guaranteed due to several critical friction points:
Active Hostilities: The announcement follows intense tit-for-tat military exchanges earlier in the week. Even as the political statements were being made, U.S. forces reportedly shot down two Iranian attack drones targeting commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting that the military situation remains active.
The Naval Blockade: Trump explicitly stated that the U.S. naval blockade on Iran remains “in full force and effect" and will only be lifted once the agreement is officially signed.
Allied Scepticism: Key regional players such as Israel have kept a cautious distance. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed speaking with Trump but clarified that Israel is “not a party to the memorandum of understanding", while maintaining strict demands regarding the total dismantling of Iran’s enrichment infrastructure.
While global financial markets reacted with optimism—causing oil prices to slide on hopes of a resolution—the “end of the war" remains a diplomatic concept rather than a verified reality until both nations officially sign an agreement.
KEY FAQS
Is there really a signed U.S.-Iran peace deal?
Not yet. The draft says Trump announced a memorandum of understanding, but Iran has stated that no final agreement has been approved.
Has the conflict actually ended?
That remains unclear. Reports of ongoing military activity and the continuation of U.S. pressure measures suggest tensions have not fully subsided.
Why should some claims be verified?
Assertions about a signed deal, a U.S. naval blockade, and specific military incidents are significant developments that require confirmation from official sources.
With agency inputs
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At the news desk for 20 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing speci...Read More
News explainers Trump Says ‘Iran War Has Ended’: Is The Conflict Really Over? Explained
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