Good morning. A war lacking clear goals or an evident conclusion, yet causing widespread disruption worldwide, appears close to ending. As he prepared to celebrate his 80th birthday with a cage fight on the White House lawn, Donald Trump posted on social media that the agreement with Iran is now complete. The US president had asserted a deal was near since early in the conflict, but this announcement gained support from Iranian officials and Pakistan, serving as mediator. Iran’s deputy foreign minister Kazem Gharibabadi stated the pact brings an immediate halt to the war, including fighting in Lebanon. World leaders such as Keir Starmer welcomed the development. Many affected by the turmoil may feel relief, though doubts persist. Unresolved issues include the nuclear agreement, the Strait of Hormuz, Israel’s involvement, and the durability of peace. A note on format: this summer the Monday First Edition will test new approaches, with small adjustments today and larger trials ahead. Feedback is welcome. Weekend summary: British forces boarded a Russian shadow fleet tanker in the Channel on Sunday, marking the first UK-led naval seizure since the Ukraine war began. In Kyiv, the Dormition Cathedral caught fire amid Russian strikes. The defence review continues after ministerial departures, with the culture secretary noting efforts to redirect funds to defence. A western reef heron, typically seen from west Africa to India, appeared in north Wales for the first time in Britain. Tommy Robinson was detained at Heathrow under counter-terrorism laws following riots in Southampton. In depth: On 28 February, the US and Israel began a major offensive against Iran, killing Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran. Trump said the action, called Operation Epic Fury, would allow Iranians to rise up, while Benjamin Netanyahu urged protests. Iran responded with sustained strikes, closing the Strait of Hormuz and raising oil prices. Thousands died across the region. Trump repeatedly claimed the conflict was nearly over. A brief ceasefire in April collapsed with new US strikes. Late last week he shifted, announcing an imminent deal. G7 leaders will discuss it in France. Details remain limited; a memorandum is set for signing in Switzerland on Friday, with further talks during a 60-day ceasefire. Pakistan and Iran indicated Lebanon would be covered.
