WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump marked his 80th birthday on Sunday by announcing a preliminary agreement with Iran to end hostilities, while hosting an Ultimate Fighting Championship event on the White House South Lawn.
Trump hailed the framework accord as a completed deal that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and lift a U.S. naval blockade, hours before the cage-fighting spectacle began. The event combined the milestone birthday celebration with observances tied to the nation’s 250th anniversary, according to White House officials and event organizers.
The agreement, described as a memorandum of understanding, includes an immediate 60-day ceasefire and plans for further negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program, sanctions relief and regional security issues. Details of the full terms remain subject to ongoing talks, with a formal signing ceremony expected later this week in Geneva, U.S. and Iranian officials indicated.
Trump, who turned 80 on June 14, posted on social media that “the deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete. Congratulations to all!” He authorized the reopening of the strait and removal of the blockade, moves that could ease global oil prices, according to administration statements.
The UFC event featured multiple fights on a specially constructed octagon on the South Lawn, drawing thousands of spectators and extensive media coverage. Trump watched ringside with first lady Melania Trump, an occurrence described by outlets as unprecedented for the White House grounds.
Iranian officials offered some conflicting accounts on aspects of the agreement, and key specifics such as timelines for implementation and commitments on nuclear activities continue to be clarified. Both sides have described the framework as an initial step rather than a comprehensive resolution.
Democrats and some international observers have called for greater congressional oversight and transparency regarding the deal’s provisions. Israel reacted cautiously, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating that the country would continue to protect its interests independently.
The birthday events unfolded amid Trump’s attendance at the G7 summit in France, where he continued to discuss the agreement with world leaders. Vice President JD Vance has been involved in negotiations and emphasized that no immediate taxpayer funds would be released without verifiable Iranian compliance on core issues.
As of Tuesday, the preliminary framework was in place, with agencies monitoring the reopening of maritime traffic in the strait and the status of the ceasefire. Further details on long-term implementation are expected in coming days as talks progress.
