US President Donald Trump announced that a peace deal with Iran is nearing completion following extensive talks with Middle Eastern leaders, including those from Pakistan and Israel. Trump indicated that the proposed agreement aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and work towards ending the conflict that erupted earlier this year. He described the deal as “largely negotiated,” with just a few details pending before an official declaration is made. The discussions included leaders from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, Egypt, the UAE, Jordan, Bahrain, and Pakistan, as well as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
In response, Iranian officials have disputed parts of Trump’s announcement, particularly concerning the control over the Strait of Hormuz. They maintained that the strategic waterway would remain under Iran’s jurisdiction, including decisions about shipping routes and permits. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed optimism about the diplomatic headway and mentioned Pakistan’s readiness to host further talks between the US and Iran. Pakistan’s army chief, General Syed Asim Munir, has been notably active in mediation efforts, holding meetings with Iranian leaders in Tehran.
Reports indicate that the draft proposal includes a 60-day extension of the ceasefire, reopening the Strait of Hormuz toll-free, easing constraints on Iranian oil exports, and renewing discussions on Iran’s nuclear program. In exchange, the US might relax restrictions on Iranian ports and release frozen Iranian assets as part of a comprehensive settlement. Despite these diplomatic advances, tensions remain, with Trump cautioning that military actions could resume if negotiations fall through.
This potential agreement has sparked debate in Washington. Supporters view it as a crucial step to prevent further conflict and economic instability, while critics, particularly within the Republican Party, argue that the terms resemble past nuclear agreements they strongly opposed. The possible deal is seen as a way to avoid military escalation, yet opponents fear it could bolster Iran’s influence in the region.