Iran blames ‘Zionist regime’ for conflict, destabilising policies

A US$300 billion reconstruction fund for Iran has emerged as a flashpoint in a newly reached ceasefire agreement between Washington and Tehran, raising fresh questions over who will ultimately bear the cost.

China's top diplomat appeared to subtly reject a public call by Tehran to forge a new alliance as Iran looks to recover from months of war with the United States and Israel.

A new agreement signed between the United States and Iran on Thursday (June 18, 2026) to end months of conflict and tensions has raised the prospect of a revival in Iran's energy exports.

The 14-point agreement signed on Wednesday evening extends a ceasefire announced in April by another 60 days, including in Lebanon, to allow the two sides to negotiate a final truce.