Author: Loisa Lane

Major shipping companies remain hesitant to resume operations through the Strait of Hormuz despite a forthcoming U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding aimed at lifting restrictions. While President Trump has assured safety, firms indicate that substantial security guarantees are necessary before risk levels are deemed acceptable for transiting the vital waterway.

The US and Iran aim for an immediate end to military operations, detailed in the memorandum of understanding.

Republican Senator Mitch McConnell has been admitted to hospital, confirmed a spokesperson. While details on the admission remain undisclosed, he is reportedly engaged with Senate business. Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed optimism about McConnell’s return to Capitol Hill later this week.

President Trump announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding with Iran during his visit to France for the G7 summit. He stated that significant progress is being made on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, with U.S. assistance in mine clearance expected to begin immediately.

The Israeli Defence Force conducted airstrikes in southern Beirut targeting Hezbollah leadership, a response to rocket attacks on Israel. Meanwhile, discussions of a US-Iran truce surfaced, potentially addressing tensions in Lebanon, though compliance from Iran remains uncertain, crucial for Israel’s security concerns.

The United States and Iran have finalised an agreement to terminate all military operations, as announced by President Trump and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. A signing ceremony is set for June 19 in Switzerland, with discussions preceding the official signing.

Vice President JD Vance discussed his new book, “Communion: Finding My Way Back to Faith,” in an interview with Robert Costa. He covered his conversion to Catholicism and hinted at a potential presidential campaign in 2028, outlining his personal and political reflections.

Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act has expired, compromising the government’s ability to collect foreign intelligence without a warrant. Its lapsed status may affect cooperation from telecommunications providers, though existing authorisations remain in effect until their predetermined expiration dates.

Israeli and Palestinian groups appeal in Paris for global support to maintain the two-state solution amid ongoing Middle East tensions.

A federal judge in Virginia has granted a preliminary injunction to block the Justice Department’s $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund, citing concerns over its potential impact. The order requires the government to assure it will not proceed with the fund, amid ongoing legal challenges.