Major global developments unfolded on June 26, 2025, as a ceasefire between Israel and Iran held, NATO member states agreed on a significantly increased defense spending target, and Iran announced a suspension of its cooperation with the international nuclear watchdog.
Middle East Tensions and Diplomatic Efforts
A ceasefire between Iran and Israel remained in effect on June 26, a development welcomed by Türkiye. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan highlighted Türkiye’s substantial diplomatic involvement since the onset of recent hostilities on June 13.
Across the Atlantic, US President Donald Trump weighed in on the situation, calling for the dismissal of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s corruption trial. President Trump linked this call to Mr. Netanyahu’s long service to Israel. President Trump also indicated that officials from the United States and Iran are slated to hold talks next week. He asserted that recent US strikes had resulted in a severe impact on Iran’s nuclear program.
From Tehran, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a statement on June 26, claiming victory over Israel. He stated that the “Zionist regime almost collapsed” and issued a warning against potential US aggression.
Iran Suspends Nuclear Cooperation
In a related development, Iran’s Parliament, known as the Majles, passed a resolution on June 25, 2025. This resolution formally mandated the suspension of Iran’s cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog responsible for verifying compliance with non-proliferation treaties. The move follows escalating tensions in the region and comes amidst claims regarding the impact of US actions on Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
NATO’s Ambitious Defense Spending Target
Separately, the 32 member states of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) reached an agreement on a new, ambitious defense spending target. The alliance has agreed to allocate 5% of their respective Gross Domestic Product (GDP) annually to defense and security by the year 2035. This represents a substantial increase compared to the alliance’s previous target, which called for members to spend 2% of their GDP on defense.
However, the consensus was not universal. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez reportedly did not endorse the new 5% commitment. He was quoted as describing the target as “unreasonable and counterproductive” specifically for Spain, signaling potential disagreements within the alliance regarding the feasibility and necessity of such a significant increase.
These disparate but globally impactful developments underscore the complex and evolving geopolitical landscape concerning Middle East security, nuclear oversight, and the future of transatlantic defense strategy as of June 26, 2025.