https://aseannow.com/rss/44-thailand-news.xml/National and regional news from all around Thailandenhttps://aseannow.com/thailand-news/korean-man-arrested-in-pattaya-for-online-obscene-material-r2443/Thai immigration officers have arrested a 30-year-old South Korean national in Pattaya, Chon Buri on 21 June 2026 at around 08:30 following a court-authorised search linked to online obscene material and the seizure of multiple illegal drugs. The suspect, identified only as “Louis Kim”, is accused of posting explicit videos on the social media platform X showing sexual activity with a Thai woman. He reportedly admitted to uploading the content during initial questioning. Officers also discovered a range of narcotics inside the residence. Get today's headlines by email The operation was carried out under directives from senior police leadership, including Pol Gen Kittirat Phanphet, National Police Chief, and Pol Gen Samran Nualma, Deputy National Police Chief, who ordered intensified action against transnational crime, online offences, and drug-related activities affecting public order. Pol Lt Gen Phanumart Boonyalak, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, together with Pol Maj Gen Phanthana Nuchanart, instructed Immigration Division 3 to prioritise investigations into foreign nationals suspected of committing offences in Thailand. Following these orders, Pol Maj Gen Songprot Sirisukha, Commander of Immigration Division 3, assigned Pol Col Suriya Phuangsomboon, Superintendent of the Investigation Unit, to oversee the case. The investigation team included Pol Lt Col Ithithon Prasriyasak, Pol Lt Col Thongthai Pairor, and Pol Maj Anupap Tujinda, who gathered evidence before securing a search warrant from the Pattaya Provincial Court. Officers then executed the warrant at a residential property in Pattaya, Chon Buri. During the search, authorities seized methamphetamine (4 bags weighing 21.36 grams), ketamine (3 bags weighing 304.32 grams), 296 MDMA tablets, and 9 items of etomidate, also known locally as “pod k”. All substances were confiscated as evidence. Police stated the suspect is also facing charges for drug possession with intent to sell, alongside offences relating to the distribution of obscene material and computer-related crime. Pictures courtesy of Thaitabloid He has been charged under the Computer Crime Act B.E. 2560 Section 14(4) for uploading obscene data accessible to the public, Section 287(1) of the Penal Code for distributing pornographic material, and under narcotics legislation for possession of Category 1 and Category 2 drugs with intent to distribute. He was taken into custody together with the seized items and transferred to investigators for further legal proceedings. Thaitabloid reported that authorities said the investigation will be expanded to trace the origin of the seized drugs and etomidate, and to determine whether additional individuals or wider networks are involved in supply or distribution. AQMf3zdFNaJUOz8zvuLmhxPPF5WXP9Nzo9zQ37CPGZFblV60t3BPJeDGKB0yq94tqy3Px_FMvtZaK9mfqy_oTslNEe1vMEYZVeidYQvLRg.mp4 Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 23 June 2026Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:58:18 +0000Thai immigration officers have arrested a 30-year-old South Korean national in Pattaya, Chon Buri on 21 June 2026 at around 08:30 following a court-authorised search linked to online obscene material and the seizure of multiple illegal drugs. The suspect, identified only as “Louis Kim”, is accused of posting explicit videos on the social media platform X showing sexual activity with a Thai woman. He reportedly admitted to uploading the content during initial questioning. Officers also discovered a range of narcotics inside the residence. Get today's headlines by email The operation was carried out under directives from senior police leadership, including Pol Gen Kittirat Phanphet, National Police Chief, and Pol Gen Samran Nualma, Deputy National Police Chief, who ordered intensified action against transnational crime, online offences, and drug-related activities affecting public order. Pol Lt Gen Phanumart Boonyalak, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, together with Pol Maj Gen Phanthana Nuchanart, instructed Immigration Division 3 to prioritise investigations into foreign nationals suspected of committing offences in Thailand. Following these orders, Pol Maj Gen Songprot Sirisukha, Commander of Immigration Division 3, assigned Pol Col Suriya Phuangsomboon, Superintendent of the Investigation Unit, to oversee the case. The investigation team included Pol Lt Col Ithithon Prasriyasak, Pol Lt Col Thongthai Pairor, and Pol Maj Anupap Tujinda, who gathered evidence before securing a search warrant from the Pattaya Provincial Court. Officers then executed the warrant at a residential property in Pattaya, Chon Buri. During the search, authorities seized methamphetamine (4 bags weighing 21.36 grams), ketamine (3 bags weighing 304.32 grams), 296 MDMA tablets, and 9 items of etomidate, also known locally as “pod k”. All substances were confiscated as evidence. Police stated the suspect is also facing charges for drug possession with intent to sell, alongside offences relating to the distribution of obscene material and computer-related crime. Pictures courtesy of Thaitabloid He has been charged under the Computer Crime Act B.E. 2560 Section 14(4) for uploading obscene data accessible to the public, Section 287(1) of the Penal Code for distributing pornographic material, and under narcotics legislation for possession of Category 1 and Category 2 drugs with intent to distribute. He was taken into custody together with the seized items and transferred to investigators for further legal proceedings. Thaitabloid reported that authorities said the investigation will be expanded to trace the origin of the seized drugs and etomidate, and to determine whether additional individuals or wider networks are involved in supply or distribution. AQMf3zdFNaJUOz8zvuLmhxPPF5WXP9Nzo9zQ37CPGZFblV60t3BPJeDGKB0yq94tqy3Px_FMvtZaK9mfqy_oTslNEe1vMEYZVeidYQvLRg.mp4 Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 23 June 2026 View full articleMon, 22 Jun 2026 21:58:18 +0000What do you call the killing of innocent women and children that seems to given you a cozy warm feeling?Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:50:57 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/polish-man-arrested-in-buriram-over-interpol-vat-fraud-r2442/Thai immigration police have arrested Polish national Mr Andzej, 64, in the northeastern province of Buriram after an Interpol Red Notice flagged him as wanted for involvement in a transnational VAT fraud network. Officers from the Immigration Bureau confirmed that the suspect was found to have overstayed his visa by 42 days at the time of arrest. Get today's headlines by email The operation was conducted in coordination with regional immigration units following intelligence checks on foreign nationals residing illegally in the area. He was taken into custody for immigration violations while international warrants remain active. Between 13 December 2012 and 25 August 2013, Andzej allegedly collaborated with others in an organised criminal network operating across European Union member states. The group is accused of committing VAT fraud involving cross-border trade in goods, designed to illegally reduce value added tax liabilities. Authorities in Poland estimate financial losses to the state at 5,199,968.01 Polish zloty. Following the alleged offences, he reportedly fled the jurisdiction and later travelled to Thailand, where he was subsequently located by investigators. Thai immigration enforcement described the arrest as part of ongoing measures to prevent foreign suspects with serious international warrants from using Thailand as a safe haven. The Immigration Bureau operates under a framework described as “not allowed in, not allowed to stay, and not allowed to escape”, targeting overstays and individuals flagged by international law enforcement systems. Officials said the case reflects continued cooperation with Interpol and foreign agencies, including coordination through Warsaw, to track fugitives across borders. He is currently being held for prosecution under Thai immigration law for overstaying his permitted stay, with legal proceedings initiated under the Immigration Act. Naewna reported that authorities are to coordinate with Polish authorities and diplomatic channels regarding extradition or deportation proceedings. Once domestic immigration charges are processed, he is to be returned to Poland to face further legal action in connection with the alleged VAT fraud offences. Officials have not released a timeline for transfer, pending inter-agency coordination. Pictures courtesy of Naewna Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Naewna 23 June 2026Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:46:33 +0000Thai immigration police have arrested Polish national Mr Andzej, 64, in the northeastern province of Buriram after an Interpol Red Notice flagged him as wanted for involvement in a transnational VAT fraud network. Officers from the Immigration Bureau confirmed that the suspect was found to have overstayed his visa by 42 days at the time of arrest. Get today's headlines by email The operation was conducted in coordination with regional immigration units following intelligence checks on foreign nationals residing illegally in the area. He was taken into custody for immigration violations while international warrants remain active. Between 13 December 2012 and 25 August 2013, Andzej allegedly collaborated with others in an organised criminal network operating across European Union member states. The group is accused of committing VAT fraud involving cross-border trade in goods, designed to illegally reduce value added tax liabilities. Authorities in Poland estimate financial losses to the state at 5,199,968.01 Polish zloty. Following the alleged offences, he reportedly fled the jurisdiction and later travelled to Thailand, where he was subsequently located by investigators. Thai immigration enforcement described the arrest as part of ongoing measures to prevent foreign suspects with serious international warrants from using Thailand as a safe haven. The Immigration Bureau operates under a framework described as “not allowed in, not allowed to stay, and not allowed to escape”, targeting overstays and individuals flagged by international law enforcement systems. Officials said the case reflects continued cooperation with Interpol and foreign agencies, including coordination through Warsaw, to track fugitives across borders. He is currently being held for prosecution under Thai immigration law for overstaying his permitted stay, with legal proceedings initiated under the Immigration Act. Naewna reported that authorities are to coordinate with Polish authorities and diplomatic channels regarding extradition or deportation proceedings. Once domestic immigration charges are processed, he is to be returned to Poland to face further legal action in connection with the alleged VAT fraud offences. Officials have not released a timeline for transfer, pending inter-agency coordination. Pictures courtesy of Naewna Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Naewna 23 June 2026 View full articleMon, 22 Jun 2026 21:46:33 +0000But if you post something like that on the VISA forum section you will only get laughing emojis.Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:41:26 +0000Yeh but being rightwing seems to help when it comes to obfuscating or otherwise excusing the heinous crimes of a Scottish white guy attacking Muslims and people of color with a knife.Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:40:29 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-navy-orders-probe-into-conscript-punishment-r2441/The Royal Thai Navy has ordered an urgent investigation into allegations that a conscript was subjected to inappropriate punishment, following the circulation of information on social media. The incident, which is under scrutiny at the Navy headquarters in Bangkok, is suspected to involve hazing practices between long-serving conscripts and newly recruited personnel. Authorities say disciplinary and legal action will be taken if wrongdoing is confirmed. Get today's headlines by email Rear Admiral Parach Ratanchaiyaphan, spokesman for the Royal Thai Navy, confirmed on 22 June 2026 at 11:30 that senior commanders have instructed relevant units to carry out a full inquiry. A formal investigative committee has been established to gather all facts in a fair and comprehensive manner. The Navy stressed that all sides will be treated justly during the process. According to preliminary internal reports, the case may be linked to so-called “welcoming” or initiation practices within a unit, involving interactions between earlier conscripts and new arrivals. The details remain unverified, and officials have stated that conclusions will only be drawn once the investigation is complete. The allegations have prompted concern after being widely shared online, drawing public attention to conduct within military training environments. The Royal Thai Navy has reiterated that it does not accept violence, bullying, or any form of punishment outside approved regulations. It added that it places strong emphasis on human rights, the welfare of personnel, and the safety of all servicemen. If violations of military rules, regulations, or criminal law are identified, the Navy said it will proceed with strict disciplinary and legal measures without exception. Khaosod reported that the investigative committee will continue collecting evidence and statements from those involved and from relevant units. The findings will be reviewed by senior command, and further action will depend on the outcome of the inquiry. The Navy has also indicated that results will be communicated to the public to ensure transparency. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 23 June 2026Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:38:09 +0000The Royal Thai Navy has ordered an urgent investigation into allegations that a conscript was subjected to inappropriate punishment, following the circulation of information on social media. The incident, which is under scrutiny at the Navy headquarters in Bangkok, is suspected to involve hazing practices between long-serving conscripts and newly recruited personnel. Authorities say disciplinary and legal action will be taken if wrongdoing is confirmed. Get today's headlines by email Rear Admiral Parach Ratanchaiyaphan, spokesman for the Royal Thai Navy, confirmed on 22 June 2026 at 11:30 that senior commanders have instructed relevant units to carry out a full inquiry. A formal investigative committee has been established to gather all facts in a fair and comprehensive manner. The Navy stressed that all sides will be treated justly during the process. According to preliminary internal reports, the case may be linked to so-called “welcoming” or initiation practices within a unit, involving interactions between earlier conscripts and new arrivals. The details remain unverified, and officials have stated that conclusions will only be drawn once the investigation is complete. The allegations have prompted concern after being widely shared online, drawing public attention to conduct within military training environments. The Royal Thai Navy has reiterated that it does not accept violence, bullying, or any form of punishment outside approved regulations. It added that it places strong emphasis on human rights, the welfare of personnel, and the safety of all servicemen. If violations of military rules, regulations, or criminal law are identified, the Navy said it will proceed with strict disciplinary and legal measures without exception. Khaosod reported that the investigative committee will continue collecting evidence and statements from those involved and from relevant units. The findings will be reviewed by senior command, and further action will depend on the outcome of the inquiry. The Navy has also indicated that results will be communicated to the public to ensure transparency. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 23 June 2026 View full articleMon, 22 Jun 2026 21:38:09 +0000When did I say you were Scottish? I haven’t the slightest interest in where you are from, no point of origin could improve the arguments you put forward. Your attempts to deflect from the heinous crimes of this Scottish white knife attacker continue.Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:37:31 +0000Well perhaps it emerges when scurrilous political leaders and other racist grifters engage in racists dog whistles and racist rage baiting to further their own political and financial ends.Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:32:29 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/taxi-driver-reports-tourist-after-theft-attempt-in-phuket-r2440/A female taxi driver in Phuket has filed a police complaint against a reported European tourist after he allegedly took her handbag and mobile phone during a journey from Patong to Phuket Town. The incident, which was captured by an in-car camera and widely shared on social media, prompted intervention from members of the public who helped recover the driver’s belongings. Get today's headlines by email Pol. Lt. Col. Wichit Nokkaew, an investigator at Patong Police Station, received a complaint, on 22 June 2026, from 39-year-old taxi driver Pichapa Saengkhan. She requested legal action against the foreign tourist following the incident that occurred while she was transporting him as a passenger. Pichapa told investigators that at approximately 9.50am, she picked up a passenger, which she described as a large European male, outside Patong Hospital. The passenger asked to be taken to a hotel in Wichit subdistrict, Mueang Phuket district. While travelling past Suwannakhiriwong Temple, the passenger allegedly reached over and took a handbag that had been placed on the front passenger seat. The bag contained a mobile phone, cash and several important documents. The driver said she repeatedly asked for her property to be returned, but the passenger refused. When the vehicle reached the entrance to Khuan Yang Charoen Soi, she stopped the taxi and attempted to recover the bag while the passenger reportedly resisted and tried to open the door to escape. Alarmed by the situation, Pichapa repeatedly sounded the vehicle’s horn to attract attention. Local residents and passing members of the public responded and approached the vehicle, prompting the passenger to return the handbag and all of its contents before leaving the vehicle and running off. Daily News reported that the driver later attended Patong Police Station to formally report the incident and seek legal action against the suspect. Police have accepted the complaint as evidence and have coordinated with investigators to review CCTV footage from the area. Officers are also gathering witness statements and other evidence to identify and locate the foreign tourist for questioning and further legal proceedings. 2457694934464765381.mp4 Video courtesy of Phuketinsta Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 23 June 2026Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:31:38 +0000A female taxi driver in Phuket has filed a police complaint against a reported European tourist after he allegedly took her handbag and mobile phone during a journey from Patong to Phuket Town. The incident, which was captured by an in-car camera and widely shared on social media, prompted intervention from members of the public who helped recover the driver’s belongings. Get today's headlines by email Pol. Lt. Col. Wichit Nokkaew, an investigator at Patong Police Station, received a complaint, on 22 June 2026, from 39-year-old taxi driver Pichapa Saengkhan. She requested legal action against the foreign tourist following the incident that occurred while she was transporting him as a passenger. Pichapa told investigators that at approximately 9.50am, she picked up a passenger, which she described as a large European male, outside Patong Hospital. The passenger asked to be taken to a hotel in Wichit subdistrict, Mueang Phuket district. While travelling past Suwannakhiriwong Temple, the passenger allegedly reached over and took a handbag that had been placed on the front passenger seat. The bag contained a mobile phone, cash and several important documents. The driver said she repeatedly asked for her property to be returned, but the passenger refused. When the vehicle reached the entrance to Khuan Yang Charoen Soi, she stopped the taxi and attempted to recover the bag while the passenger reportedly resisted and tried to open the door to escape. Alarmed by the situation, Pichapa repeatedly sounded the vehicle’s horn to attract attention. Local residents and passing members of the public responded and approached the vehicle, prompting the passenger to return the handbag and all of its contents before leaving the vehicle and running off. Daily News reported that the driver later attended Patong Police Station to formally report the incident and seek legal action against the suspect. Police have accepted the complaint as evidence and have coordinated with investigators to review CCTV footage from the area. Officers are also gathering witness statements and other evidence to identify and locate the foreign tourist for questioning and further legal proceedings. 2457694934464765381.mp4 Video courtesy of Phuketinsta Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 23 June 2026 View full articleMon, 22 Jun 2026 21:31:38 +0000Conservative commentator Tucker Carlson says he no longer supports the Republican Party, citing what he described as a lack of loyalty to the United States among party leaders. Break With the GOP Get today's headlines by email Speaking on the "Can't Be Censored" podcast, Carlson said he would not support Republican candidates in future elections. Criticism of Party LeadershipCarlson argued that Americans should not support a political party they believe is not acting in the country's interests. The former Fox News host said he had voted Republican throughout his life and spent decades defending the party, but now believes its actions are indefensible. Split With Trump Over IranCarlson's break with the party follows a growing rift with President Donald Trump over U.S. policy toward Iran. Once a prominent supporter of Trump, Carlson has sharply criticized the administration since the U.S. military campaign against Iran and its allied groups began earlier this year. He has accused the administration of being influenced by Israel in its approach to the conflict and has repeatedly attacked Trump over the issue. Future Political Support UnclearCarlson said his opposition extends beyond the president and that he does not intend to vote for Republican candidates in upcoming elections. While ruling out support for Republicans, he said he does not currently know what political path he will take instead. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 June 2026 View full articleMon, 22 Jun 2026 21:30:14 +0000Yes, I consistently condemn all direct violent threats.Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:27:58 +0000More likely the individual was already murderous, just looking for an excuse. Like all terrorists.Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:27:28 +0000People with boots on the ground can do a better, cheaper, more efficient and discerning job. A.I. (a eye, the all seeing eye) is here only for your destruction, not protection. Quit hittin that snooze bar people. 💯% 👊Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:24:16 +0000Indeed, as you have just demonstrated!Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:24:13 +0000Former leader of Northern Ireland’s DUP Jeffrey Donaldson has been convicted of 18 counts of child sex offenses. Donaldson’d wife, avoided criminal conviction on the grounds of not being able to stand trial due to mental health, but was found guilty in a ‘trial of facts’. She undoubtedly knew of and covered up her husband’s heinous crimes. Will the Proddies kick off with rioting and arson I wonder? https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2026/jun/22/jeffrey-donaldson-found-guilty-of-child-sexual-offences-includingMon, 22 Jun 2026 21:24:05 +0000Well of course before any of this can happen Trump has to lose control of Congress. That, in itself, will be a whole new battle which we can expect will not be fought out following constitutional or electoral norms.Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:17:47 +0000you dispute it?Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:17:20 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/mae-sot-school-closes-after-myanmar-troop-build-up-r2439/Ban Mae Kon Ken School in Tambon Mahawan, Mae Sot district, Tak province, has ordered an emergency closure on Monday 22 June 2026 after authorities assessed a heightened risk from cross-border fighting near the Myanmar border. The decision was made at around 11:30, affecting teachers and students at short notice. The closure follows concerns that renewed clashes across the border could pose a safety risk to the school community. Get today's headlines by email Authorities reported that more than 200 Myanmar troops had been deployed to a base in the Pasak area of Myawaddy Township, directly opposite the Thai border near Ban Huai Mahawong, Village No. 9, Tambon Mahawan. The build-up was linked to preparations for an offensive against anti-government groups operating in the area. Officials assessed that fighting could escalate within one to two days, prompting precautionary measures on the Thai side under emergency response plans coordinated with relevant agencies in Tak province. The closure order was issued by school head teacher Thawatchai Saengplaeng, who cited special circumstances linked to the situation across the border. Local authorities and security agencies are continuing to monitor developments along the frontier, with coordination between relevant units under established emergency protocols. Contingency plans have been activated to respond if conditions deteriorate further, with priority given to the safety of teachers, students and nearby residents. The school confirmed the closure applies for initially one day, with operations expected to reviewed daily and only resume once conditions are assessed as safe. Amarin reported that officials said surveillance of the border area will continue, with ongoing coordination between local administrative bodies and security forces stationed in Mae Sot district. Decisions on reopening the school will depend on continuous risk assessments and any changes in the security situation in Myanmar’s Myawaddy region, where tensions remain elevated. Pictures courtesy of Amarin Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 23 June 2026Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:16:12 +0000Ban Mae Kon Ken School in Tambon Mahawan, Mae Sot district, Tak province, has ordered an emergency closure on Monday 22 June 2026 after authorities assessed a heightened risk from cross-border fighting near the Myanmar border. The decision was made at around 11:30, affecting teachers and students at short notice. The closure follows concerns that renewed clashes across the border could pose a safety risk to the school community. Get today's headlines by email Authorities reported that more than 200 Myanmar troops had been deployed to a base in the Pasak area of Myawaddy Township, directly opposite the Thai border near Ban Huai Mahawong, Village No. 9, Tambon Mahawan. The build-up was linked to preparations for an offensive against anti-government groups operating in the area. Officials assessed that fighting could escalate within one to two days, prompting precautionary measures on the Thai side under emergency response plans coordinated with relevant agencies in Tak province. The closure order was issued by school head teacher Thawatchai Saengplaeng, who cited special circumstances linked to the situation across the border. Local authorities and security agencies are continuing to monitor developments along the frontier, with coordination between relevant units under established emergency protocols. Contingency plans have been activated to respond if conditions deteriorate further, with priority given to the safety of teachers, students and nearby residents. The school confirmed the closure applies for initially one day, with operations expected to reviewed daily and only resume once conditions are assessed as safe. Amarin reported that officials said surveillance of the border area will continue, with ongoing coordination between local administrative bodies and security forces stationed in Mae Sot district. Decisions on reopening the school will depend on continuous risk assessments and any changes in the security situation in Myanmar’s Myawaddy region, where tensions remain elevated. Pictures courtesy of Amarin Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 23 June 2026 View full articleMon, 22 Jun 2026 21:16:12 +0000Not bitter then Jonny?!Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:15:44 +0000US Vice-President JD Vance said Iran has agreed to allow international nuclear inspectors back into the country, describing the move as a significant step in efforts to secure a broader agreement following the recent conflict between Washington and Tehran. Get today's headlines by email Speaking in Switzerland on Monday, Vance said discussions with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) could begin “as soon as today”, with inspectors expected to start returning at least this week. The announcement followed the first round of talks between the United States and Iran aimed at reaching a final settlement after the war. Vance said the discussions had made substantial progress and provided a strong basis for future negotiations. Talks Target Final AgreementEarlier on Monday, mediators Qatar and Pakistan said the two sides had agreed on a roadmap intended to produce a final deal within 60 days. Vance echoed that assessment, saying negotiators had established a “very good foundation” for a lasting agreement. He highlighted Iran’s nuclear programme as the central issue for Washington, describing the planned return of inspectors as an important milestone and a first step toward permanently ending any potential Iranian nuclear weapons programme. Iran has consistently maintained that its nuclear activities are intended solely for civilian purposes. Inspectors and Nuclear StockpilesThe 14-point memorandum of understanding signed last week by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian includes provisions concerning the IAEA and Iran’s stockpile of enriched nuclear material. Although Tehran denies seeking nuclear weapons, a number of governments and the IAEA have expressed concerns about the nature of its nuclear activities. The issue has been at the centre of international diplomacy for more than a decade. In 2015, Iran and six major powers — the United States, China, France, Russia, Germany and the United Kingdom — reached the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, commonly known as the JCPOA. The agreement imposed limits on Iran’s nuclear programme and granted IAEA inspectors broad access to nuclear facilities and suspected sites. However, Trump withdrew the United States from the accord in 2018, arguing that it failed to provide permanent restrictions and did not address Iran’s ballistic missile programme. Following the 12-day war in June 2025, Iran suspended IAEA access to sites targeted by Israeli and US strikes. The following month, the agency withdrew its remaining inspectors from the country. Strait of Hormuz and LebanonVance said negotiators had also discussed reopening the Strait of Hormuz and arrangements to support a regional ceasefire. According to a joint statement from the mediators, a communication channel has been established to prevent incidents and ensure the safe passage of commercial shipping through the waterway. The parties also agreed to create a “de-confliction cell” involving the United States, Iran and Lebanon, with Qatar and Pakistan acting as facilitators. The mechanism is intended to help end military operations in Lebanon. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said the Lebanon initiative would be the first major test of the agreement. Despite the memorandum’s call for an end to fighting on all fronts, violence has continued in Lebanon. Israeli air strikes have reportedly killed at least 67 people since the deal was signed, while attacks by the armed group Hezbollah have killed five Israeli soldiers. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 June 2026 View full articleMon, 22 Jun 2026 21:11:24 +0000