The United States and Iran are on the verge of a landmark agreement, with Axios reporting Sunday that a potential 60-day extension of the ceasefire is part of a broader memorandum of understanding (MOU) being finalized. The deal, brokered with significant mediation by Pakistan, includes crucial concessions from both sides, notably the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the lifting of certain US sanctions to allow Iran to sell oil freely.
According to Axios, the current draft of the MOU specifies that the Strait of Hormuz—a vital shipping lane whose closure has disrupted global energy markets—would be reopened without tolls. Iran has committed to clearing mines it deployed in the strait, while the US would lift its blockade on Iranian ports and waive some sanctions, enabling Iran to export oil. Issues related to Iran’s nuclear program and enriched uranium stockpile remain under negotiation, though Iran has verbally assured restrictions on uranium enrichment.
Pakistan has played a pivotal role as the main mediator, with Field Marshal Asim Munir leading the effort. President Donald Trump earlier claimed that the emerging MOU would reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a statement contested by Iran’s Fars news agency. Trump wrote on Truth Social that the agreement would restore navigation through the strait, but Fars reported that Iran would retain management of the waterway, calling Trump’s assertion inconsistent with reality. The New York Times, citing US officials, reported that Iran has committed to giving up its highly enriched uranium, with details to be finalized in subsequent talks.
The agreement marks a significant de-escalation after months of conflict. The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is expected to stabilize global energy prices, which had soared since the US and Israel launched military operations against Iran in February. Analysts view the deal as a diplomatic victory for Pakistan, which has actively facilitated negotiations between Washington and Tehran.
Final aspects of the agreement are being discussed and will be announced shortly, Trump stated. The deal underscores the shifting dynamics in the Middle East, where diplomatic channels are gaining traction over military confrontation. For more context on Iran-US relations and the Strait of Hormuz, see Iran–United States relations and Strait of Hormuz: The chokepoint for global oil trade.
Source: ARY News