Vance slams Israeli reaction to Iran deal as U.S. military lifts blockade

On 19 June 2026, US Vice President JD Vance criticised Israeli critics of the US-Iran deal, telling them to 'wake up', while the US military lifted its blockade. Vance also delayed a trip to Switzerland to lead new talks with Iran on its nuclear programme. Switzerland's foreign ministry said the talks scheduled for Friday were postponed or cancelled, and NDTV reported that Lebanon was a sticking point.

Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei backed the deal while taking a dig at Trump, saying a 'desperate Trump used all kinds of leverage'. Iran warned of a 'reciprocal measure' if the US breaches the deal. Some key Republicans criticised parts of the agreement. Trump said 'we expect a complete ceasefire' between Hezbollah and Israel.