E4 nations ready to lift Iran sanctions after US-Iran deal, demand urgent Hormuz reopening
The UK, France, Germany and Italy said they will lift some sanctions if Iran takes verifiable nuclear steps, hours after a US-Iran ceasefire deal brokered by Pakistan. The group also called for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
E4 joint statement
On 14 June 2026, the leaders of the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Italy (the E4 group) issued a joint statement declaring that Iran must never acquire a nuclear weapon and pledging readiness to work with the United States, Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to that end. The statement came shortly after Pakistan’s prime minister announced that a US-Iran ceasefire deal had been finalised.
Iran must never acquire a nuclear weapon. We stand ready to work with the US, Iran and the IAEA to this end.
The four countries said they are prepared to lift relevant sanctions if Tehran takes concrete and verifiable steps on its nuclear programme.
We are prepared to lift relevant sanctions in response to clear, verifiable steps by Iran on its nuclear programme.
Strait of Hormuz
Beyond the nuclear issue, the E4 group stressed the urgent reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, calling unconditional and unrestricted freedom of navigation essential for regional security and stability. The strait is a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, and its closure during the US-Iran conflict has disrupted shipping and energy markets.
US-Iran deal
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on 14 June that the United States and Iran had reached a deal to end their war, which included a ceasefire covering Lebanon. The agreement is expected to be signed in Switzerland on 19 June. US President Donald Trump and Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Gharaibabadi both confirmed the accord. UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the agreement as a crucial step toward Middle East peace.
The agreement is a crucial step towards peace in the Middle East.
The E4 statement was issued hours before the G7 summit in Évian, France, where the Middle East conflict is a top agenda item.
Oil markets react
Crude oil prices fell around 4% at the start of Asian trading on Monday, 15 June. Brent crude for August delivery was down 4% late on Sunday evening, reflecting market relief that the Strait of Hormuz could soon reopen and sanctions might ease.
- Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif announces US-Iran ceasefire deal after mediation.
- E4 leaders issue joint statement ready to lift Iran sanctions for nuclear steps and demand Hormuz reopening.
- Oil prices fall 4% at start of Asian trading, Brent crude for August delivery down.
- US-Iran deal expected to be signed in Switzerland.
