U.S. President Donald Trump and mediator Pakistan have indicated that an initial agreement aimed at ending the conflict in the Middle East could be signed soon, although Iran has cautioned that a final signing is not yet imminent.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that the parties had agreed on a framework for a peace arrangement and that preparations were underway for an electronic signing ceremony, to be followed by technical-level discussions.
President Trump also said on social media that an agreement with Iran was expected shortly and suggested that the Strait of Hormuz could be reopened to international shipping following its implementation.
However, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei urged caution regarding the timing of any agreement.
“We will have to wait and see about the exact date of signing the memorandum of understanding,” Baghaei was quoted as saying by Iranian state media, adding that while progress had been made, uncertainty remained due to ongoing negotiations.
A U.S. official speaking to reporters described the proposed agreement as “a strong deal” but declined to confirm a specific timeline.
The conflict, which began in late February, has contributed to rising global energy prices and heightened instability across the region.
According to reports, the proposed memorandum of understanding includes provisions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy shipping route, and easing restrictions affecting maritime trade.
Sources familiar with the discussions indicated that the agreement could also pave the way for broader negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme and other regional security issues.
Draft proposals reportedly include the release of frozen Iranian assets and the easing of certain sanctions in exchange for measures aimed at restoring navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
However, significant differences remain between the parties on key issues, including the future of Iran’s nuclear programme and regional security arrangements.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel would not be a party to the proposed agreement, underscoring ongoing differences over regional security matters.
Despite the reported progress, officials on all sides have stressed that negotiations remain ongoing and that final details have yet to be agreed upon.
Source: Reuters
