US and Iran announce deal to end military operations

UK, France, Germany and Italy welcome peace deal to 'restore regional stability'published at 00:18 BST In a joint statement about the peace deal, the leaders of the UK, France, Germany and Italy say they will work closely with the US, Iran and regional partners to "seize this moment". "We congratulate the United States, the Iranian government and all those involved, including Pakistan, Qatar and all other mediators, on this diplomatic breakthrough," the group, known as the E4, says. “This is a moment of opportunity to restore regional stability and stabilise the global economy." The leaders called for the agreement to be "implemented rapidly and comprehensively" and that the "urgent reopening of the Strait of Hormuz with unconditional and unrestricted freedom of navigation is essential". The group emphasised that Iran "must never acquire a nuclear weapon" and that they are "prepared to lift relevant sanctions in response to clear, verifiable steps by Iran on its nuclear programme". “We will work intensively with the US, Iran and regional partners to seize this moment, maintain momentum and achieve a long-term diplomatic settlement." The leaders also reaffirm their support to the "stability, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon".