U.S. President Donald Trump signed an interim agreement aimed at ending the conflict between the United States and Iran during a dinner hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron at the Palace of Versailles. The choice of venue drew widespread attention online because Versailles is closely linked to historic peace treaties, especially the 1919 Treaty of Versailles that ended World War I. Many social media users highlighted the symbolism and irony of the location, with some interpreting it as a sign of surrender. French officials, however, described the setting as part of Macron's effort to use history and ceremony to promote diplomacy and peace.

The White House has postponed Vice President JD Vance’s planned trip to Switzerland, where he was expected to lead talks with Iranian negotiators aimed at advancing a broader diplomatic agreement. Officials cited logistical challenges and uncertainty over the Iranian delegation’s participation. The negotiations, scheduled to follow recent understandings between Washington and Tehran, remain in flux amid regional tensions and concerns surrounding ongoing Israeli military actions. Despite the delay, both sides have indicated that diplomacy remains a priority, and discussions could still take place once arrangements are finalized. Switzerland continues to be the proposed venue for the next phase of negotiations. (PC: Reuters)

U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance said that Washington has already permitted at least 12 ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz after the signing of the interim peace agreement with Iran. According to Vance, more than 12.5 million barrels of oil moved through the strategic waterway, signaling the beginning of a return to normal shipping operations. The move follows the lifting of the U.S. naval blockade under the deal, which opens a 60-day period for negotiations on a final agreement. Despite the progress, concerns remain over security risks and long-term stability in the region. (PC: AP)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly working to influence the final US-Iran peace agreement even after telling President Donald Trump that Israel does not consider itself bound by the deal. According to reports, Netanyahu remains skeptical of Tehran’s intentions and believes Iran will not fully comply with restrictions on its nuclear programme. He is said to be using allies in conservative media and supportive US senators to pressure Washington. A major sticking point is the agreement’s requirement for a permanent end to hostilities in Lebanon, which Israel has resisted despite growing international pressure. (PC: Reuters)

US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian have digitally signed the 14-point “Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding,” a landmark agreement aimed at ending months of conflict and paving the way for a broader settlement. The deal establishes a permanent ceasefire framework, reopens the Strait of Hormuz, initiates sanctions relief for Iran, and launches negotiations for a final agreement within 60 days. Iran reaffirmed it would not acquire nuclear weapons and accepted international oversight of enriched material through agreed mechanisms. The United States pledged sanctions waivers, asset unfreezing and economic assistance, while both sides committed to avoiding escalatory actions during negotiations. (PC: Inspired Pencil)

A dramatic video circulating online reportedly shows a Ukrainian drone strike hitting an oil refinery near Moscow, sending thick black smoke into the sky and blowing the lid off a storage tank. Russian authorities confirmed a fire at the facility and said emergency crews were deployed to contain the blaze. The attack is part of Ukraine’s ongoing campaign targeting Russian energy infrastructure to disrupt fuel supplies and military logistics. No casualties were immediately reported. The incident highlights the increasing reach of Ukrainian strikes deep inside Russian territory as the conflict between the two countries continues to escalate.

US President Donald Trump has drawn criticism after appearing to soften his stance on Iran’s ballistic missile programme following the newly signed US-Iran peace agreement. Trump argued that it would be “unfair” to deny Tehran missiles while other countries possess similar capabilities, marking a sharp departure from his earlier hardline position. Critics in the US and among allies have accused him of making excessive concessions to secure the deal. The agreement focuses mainly on nuclear restrictions and regional stability, while leaving Iran’s missile programme largely untouched, fueling concerns over future security implications. (PC: X)

Indian stock markets extended their winning streak for a fifth consecutive session on Thursday, supported by falling crude oil prices and optimism surrounding the US-Iran peace agreement. The benchmark Sensex and Nifty closed higher as investors welcomed signs of easing tensions in the Middle East, reducing concerns over energy supply disruptions.   Lower crude prices are seen as positive for India's economy, helping ease inflation and import costs. Buying in banking, financial and auto stocks also supported the rally. Market experts said improved global sentiment and hopes of stable energy prices encouraged investors to remain positive despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainties. (PC: The Hindu)

Israel's Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, has criticised the US-Iran peace deal, saying it fails to address key Israeli security concerns. In an interview with India Today, Azar said Iran's ballistic missile programme and support for regional groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas were left out of the agreement.   He also objected to provisions related to Lebanon, arguing that Israel's security interests had not been adequately protected. Azar said Israel would maintain its military presence in southern Lebanon and reserve the right to self-defence. Despite his concerns, he claimed Israel had significantly weakened Iran's military capabilities during the recent conflict. (PC: India Today)

A Ukrainian drone strike hit Moscow’s Kapotnya oil refinery on June 18, triggering a major explosion and a large fire. Videos shared online showed the refinery’s tank lid being blown into the air while thick black smoke rose above the Russian capital.   Russian officials said air defenses intercepted many drones during what was described as one of the largest attacks on Moscow since the war began. The refinery, a key fuel supplier for the city, was targeted for the second time this week. The strike caused disruptions, including temporary airport closures, as Ukraine continued its campaign against Russian energy infrastructure.