US and Iran Reach Peace Deal to End War, Reopen Strait of Hormuz

Some sources reported that the agreement included a 60-day ceasefire period for negotiations, while others stated that the ceasefire was immediate and permanent.

There were discrepancies in the reported release of frozen Iranian assets, with some sources stating $12 billion and others mentioning $24 billion.

Abbas Araghchi says ‘war has not fully come to an end’ without Israeli forces leaving territories occupied during present conflict Middle East crisis – live updates Iran’s top diplomat has said a peace deal with the US would require Israel to withdraw from Lebanon, as concern grows that Israel could undermine diplomatic efforts to finally end the Middle East war, with Donald Trump even criticising his ally and war partner as irresponsible. “Without the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the territories they occupied during this war, the war has not fully come to an end,” said the Iranian foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi. Continue reading...

Iran’s top diplomat says any continued Israeli presence in Lebanon would violate the interim U.S.–Iran deal to end the war. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists Israel will remain as long as necessary. DW has more.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday that ending the war on all fronts, including in Lebanon, was “the most important” issue in the peace deal with the United States announced the day before. “The important point I want to emphasise here is that in our view, there are two parties to this memorandum – one side is America and Israel, and the other side is Iran and Hezbollah,” said Araghchi during a briefing with foreign diplomats broadcast on state television. “This is perhaps...

Iranian state television quoted the top official making the comment to foreign diplomats in a briefing. It did not air the remarks, but put them in an on-screen graphic

Doubts swirled around the US-Iran interim deal to end the war in the Middle East as shippers said it could take weeks for confidence to return after any reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

President Trump says a deal had been reached to prolong a ceasefire with Iran and open the Strait of Hormuz, but many challenges remain.

U.S. and Iranian officials said the deal included a 60-day cease-fire to pave the way for negotiations toward a final peace agreement and talks on Iran’s nuclear program.

Crude oil prices are falling as oil markets react to President Trump saying the U.S. and Iran have agreed on a framework for reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking with FRANCE 24's Mark Owen, Negah Angha, Visiting Fellow at King's College London and Former Senior Advisor at the US Department of State and National Security Council under the Biden Administration, says that "the real test is going to be whether or not this framework survives the Lebanon angle and whether it can, on the American side, be translated into some sort of nuclear framework".

If Donald Trump calls it a peace deal, does that make it so? 'Let the oil flow,' trumpeted the US president after agreeing on the day of his 80th birthday to a memorandum of understanding with Iran. Trump quick to schedule a signing ceremony - this one next Friday in Switzerland, across from where he’s flown in for a G-Seven summit on the French side of Lake Geneva.

Iranians are sceptical that a US-Iran agreement will end their hardships.

Inherent ambiguities could yet derail signing, with Trump so far achieving none of his stated goals of the war Tallying the global cost of the US-Israel war against Iran Middle East crisis – live updates If we get to a Friday signing ceremony without this uncertain new US-Iran deal being derailed by any of its inherent ambiguities, then nuclear talks can finally restart in the same place – and at almost exactly the same point they were before this conflict started. The world will have irrevocably been changed in other ways. There is no going back for the 120 Iranian children in Minab killed in their primary school in the war’s first hours, nor for their bereaved parents, or any of the thousands in Iran, Lebanon and around the region whose lives were erased or blighted by a feckless war of choice. Continue reading...

The US leader made this announcement at a joint news conference with French President Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the Group of Seven summit

For all of the cautious optimism surrounding the framework agreement, some of the toughest issues lie ahead, and the deal could still fall apart.

The United States and Iran, ⁠as well as mediator Pakistan, ​have provided few details about the preliminary deal announced on Sunday to bring an end to the US-Iran hostilities that have engulfed the region and threatened global energy supplies. Mediators will continue meeting this week ahead of a signing ceremony on Friday in Switzerland.

Iran claimed the deal would extend to fighting in Lebanon but no details of the agreement were made public and Israel said its forces would remain there.

PM Sharif praises Pakistan's army chief for his efforts in securing a tentative deal, likely to be finalised in Geneva.

A peace deal between the US and Iran is due to be signed this week — and while the hopes of peace may yet be dashed, the news alone was enough to trigger celebrations, backlash and political infighting on both sides.

Trump says strait of Hormuz to reopen as part of imminent agreement. Plus, best pictures from historic NBA night for New York Good morning. The US and Iran have announced a framework peace deal, expected to be signed later this week, that would bring their 15-week conflict to a tentative end, offering hope of relief for the Middle East and the world economy. What do we know about the deal? Leaked drafts suggest an immediate 60-day period of intensive technical talks, during which the most contentious issues, including Iran’s nuclear program, will be discussed. Iran’s deputy foreign minister said negotiators would seek to reach a broader agreement including sanctions relief. What has been the reaction in Iran? The Guardian’s diplomatic editor, Patrick Wintour, reports anger among the country’s hardliners, who say the proposed deal does not guarantee an end to sanctions, compensation or control of the strait of Hormuz. And in Israel? Israel’s defense minister has said its forces “will remain in the security zones in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza – indefinitely – to defend the border and Israeli communities against jihadist elements”. Israel was frozen out of talks, despite having jointly launched the assault on Iran with the US. Will he have Trump’s blessing? “I have no doubt that the president of the US is going to be very supportive of anything that I ultimately decide to do,” Vance said. “I never bring it up. But sure, the president brings it up a lot, sometimes publicly, sometimes privately. You know, the president’s a political animal. He loves this stuff. He’s very fascinated by it.” Continue reading...

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif termed the deal between the U.S. and Iran as a ‘historic milestone’ of peace, hailing the new dawn that emerged as ‘after three months and 16 days of tireless efforts’

Uncertainty remains over whether Israel will honour the agreement.

In the early hours of Monday, the US and Iran agreed on a framework to end the more than three-month-long war, renewing hopes for a permanent end to the conflict that has engulfed much of the region. In a post on X, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a deal had been struck, which was later confirmed by US President Donald Trump, with an “official signing ceremony” expected on Friday, June 19, in Switzerland. Here’s how politicians reacted to the development, particularly to the role of Pakistan, a key mediator in the peace process. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari hailed the peace deal, stressing that the “breakthrough” had shown that “diplomacy can succeed where confrontation cannot”. He commended the roles played in the peace process by President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar as well as Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. “This is an important first step toward lasting peace. Pakistan remains ready to support the next phase of dialogue and negotiations,” he said. President Zardari also welcomed the development, expressing hope that it will “pave the way for a final agreement and lay the foundation for durable and comprehensive peace in the region”. He held that Pakistan was proud to have supported dialogue and diplomacy during the “difficult period”. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, in a post on X, lauded the role of CDF Munir in the process. “He did it. Again,” he said of CDF Munir, adding, “Not just for his country this time, but for the world”. PPP Senator Sherry Rehman also welcomed the development, describing it as the outcome of Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts. “The establishment of consensus between the US and Iran is a positive signal towards reducing tensions on a global scale,” a statement issued by the PPP’s media cell quoted her as saying. She expressed hope that the “confidence building” between the two nations will lead to “new hopes” in the region. “Pakistan, playing a responsible and balanced role, has contributed to paving the way for an atmosphere of reconciliation,” she said, congratulating PM Shehbaz, CDF Munir and the Pakistani leadership for “elevating Pakistan’s prestige”. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, in a post on X, appreciated the role of CDF Munir, who he said had won two wars in “one year” — referring to the four-day conflict with India in May 2025. “Victorious commander against India, and a triumphant diplomat with utmost patience and forbearance on the front of peace — successful on both fronts,” he said of CDF Munir, praying for future victories. Asif also appreciated PM Shehbaz for his role in both the India and Iran conflicts with his “sincerity and diplomatic acumen”. “This balance and singular focus in the interest of the country is the result that (by) the grace of God remains ongoing and continuous,” he said, optimistic that the leadership would “emerge victorious on the economic front and the war against terrorism as well”. Meanwhile, Information Minister Ataullah Tarar, welcoming the development, said that Pakistan was a “torchbearer of peace and a beacon of hope”. Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gillani paid tribute to the political and military leadership for their efforts, according to a statement carried by state broadcaster PTV. “Positive outcomes of Iran-US Talks can usher in a new era of development and prosperity in the region,” PTV quoted him as saying. Khyber Pankhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi termed the development a “welcome and timely step” that reflected the “triumph of dialogue over confrontation”. He commended the efforts of the Pakistani leadership for their “coordinated, principled, and visionary efforts that contributed to a historic diplomatic achievement”. He said the development had elevated “Pakistan’s standing as a credible and responsible force for peace, dialogue, and global stability,” adding that it had also reaffirmed Pakistan’s role as a “bridge-builder in moments of international significance”. Communications Minister Abdul Aleem Khan, in a post on X, said the agreement was a “powerful step” forward. “Pakistan remains committed to global harmony, and I applaud our nation’s vital role in mediating this historic outcome,” he said, adding that the achievement was a direct result of CDF Munir and the prime minister’s “tireless efforts”. ​”June 19, 2026, is going to be a big day. Insha’Allah!” he added.

The full text of the deal that could pave the way to ending the war has not been published. Initial details suggest that it defers the most contentious issues.

A potential US-Iran deal to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz could ease the global energy crunch, but oil prices and supplies may take months to stabilize as shipping restarts and infrastructure recovers.

The deal is a major breakthrough in the conflict that set the Middle East aflame and shook the global economy. However, it did not resolve critical issues set aside for further negotiations.

US and Iranian officials have agreed on a framework deal to end the war, halt hostilities on all fronts, and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with the future of Iran’s nuclear programme and sanctions relief to be settled in later negotiations. US President Donald Trump announced that the agreement was “complete” and ordered an end to the US blockade of Iranian ports, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed that a peace agreement had been reached after intensive talks, adding that the official signing ceremony would take place on June 19 in Switzerland. Iran also confirmed the framework understanding and ceasefire, saying the fighting would stop immediately, though key issues such as uranium enrichment and the release of frozen assets would be decided in subsequent discussions. Below is a timeline of the key events that led up to the agreement. February 28 The US and Israel launched an attack on Iran via air and sea: a series of explosions in Tehran, including near the residence of the supreme leader. A US-Israel airstrike on an elementary school in southern Iran killed more than 170 people, most of them schoolgirls. In retaliation, Iran attacked at least seven Gulf states, striking civilian infrastructure, damaging airports in the UAE and Kuwait, deploying a drone over residential areas in Qatar, and firing ballistic missiles into Jordan, while hitting an apartment building in Bahrain. People and rescue forces work following an Israel strike on a school in Minab, Iran, on February 28, 2026. — Reuters March 1 Iran confirmed that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, several of his family members, and other top officials had been killed in Israeli-US strikes a day earlier. Moreover, 16 people were injured in 11 explosions in Qatar, while one was injured after drone attacks on Oman’s Doqm commercial port. March 3 An Israeli strike damaged the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting complex and the Unesco site Golestan Palace. The total death toll in Iran crossed 700. March 5 A US submarine torpedoed the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena near Sri Lanka while it was returning from a naval deployment. Iranian authorities said about 80 sailors were killed. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the strike as an atrocity at sea and warned that “the United States will come to bitterly regret the precedent it has set.” A Sri Lanka Navy vessel approaches an Iranian Navy vessel IRIS Bushehr (422) during a rescue operation, a day after the crew of a distressed Iranian military ship, IRIS Dena, were assisted in waters south of Sri Lanka, off the coast of Colombo, Sri Lanka, on March 5, 2026. — Reuters March 9 Iran’s Assembly of Experts selected Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei as the country’s new supreme leader. The transition that happened without any disruption signalled both “institutional continuity and a consolidation of authority at a time when Iran remains under sustained military pressure,” according to Dawn correspondent Baqir Sajjad Syed. Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of late Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, attends a meeting in Tehran, Iran, on March 2, 2016. — Reuters Iran announced new missile strikes on Israel, with Israeli news outlets reporting that debris from interceptions fell in three areas. March 11 At this point in the conflict, the maritime domain, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, emerged as the principal flashpoint, shaping both the military trajectory of the war and the strategic calculations of the US as the contest over oil flows and shipping lanes began to define the central logic of the conflict. In the preceding 24 hours, at least three separate attacks were recorded against commercial vessels operating in or near the Strait of Hormuz, reinforcing the perception that Iran had begun enforcing its threat to disrupt maritime traffic through direct kinetic pressure. March 12 The United Nations said up to 3.2 million people in Iran had been displaced since the start of the war. According to Tehran, the US and Israel had been carpet bombing civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, oil depots, and energy infrastructure. Meanwhile, Iran continued its retaliatory attacks on Gulf countries, with several drones shot down in Saudi Arabia as well as reports of attacks on fuel tanks at Oman’s Salalah port and Bahrain. March 13 A US air refueller was downed over western Iraq while conducting aerial refuelling operations. It was the first-ever incident of any air force refueller being shot down. Iranian-aligned militias in Iraq claimed the attack in which all four crew members on board were killed, while another tanker was said to have been damaged in the same attack and forced to divert. March 14 American forces struck Kharg Island, Iran’s principal oil export hub, while Tehran and its regional allies increased pressure across multiple theatres stretching from the Gulf to Iraq and Lebanon. US aircraft conducted strikes on Kharg Island on the night of March 13, targeting what Washington described as military facilities associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy. A satellite image shows an oil terminal at Kharg Island, Iran, on February 25, 2026. 2026. — Planet Labs PBC via Reuters Meanwhile, smoke could be seen rising from two locations around Israel’s commercial hub, Tel Aviv, according to a journalist with the AFP, after blasts were heard following a warning that missiles were fired from Iran. March 17 Ali Larijani, the head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council was killed in an Israeli air strike. After weeks of speculation around whether he was still alive, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared on television to make the announcement, where he also vowed to hunt down and “neutralise” the new supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards also confirmed the death of Gholamreza Soleimani, head of the Basij paramilitary force, in a US-Israeli air strike. March 20 Across Iran, the Persian New Year arrived without the usual festivities associated with it. Celebrations were scaled down, with war, blackouts and economic strain shaping public sentiment. Markets remained open but subdued, and even among diaspora communities, observances lacked the usual fervour. March 22 Trump threatened to “obliterate” Iran’s power plants if Tehran did not fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours, a significant escalation barely a day after he talked about “winding down” the war. “If Iran doesn’t fully open, without threat, the Strait of Hormuz, within 48 hours from this exact point in time, the United States of America will hit and obliterate their various power plants, starting with the biggest one first!” Trump said on social media. March 23 Trump said he had given orders to postpone any military strikes against Iranian power plants for five days, hours ahead of a deadline that threatened further escalation in the conflict. Trump claimed in a post on his Truth Social platform that the US and Iran had had “VERY GOOD AND PRODUCTIVE” conversations over the past two days about a “COMPLETE AND TOTAL RESOLUTION OF HOSTILITIES IN THE MIDDLE EAST”. March 24 Pakistan took centre stage in a coordinated diplomatic push alongside Turkiye and Egypt, as the trio appeared instrumental in securing a five-day pause of US plans to strike Iranian energy and power infrastructure. At this point, over 82,000 civilian structures had been damaged or destroyed in US-Israeli strikes on Iran. March 26 Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed that “US-Iran indirect talks are taking place through messages being relayed by Pakistan”, adding that a 15-point US framework had been shared and is under Iranian deliberation, while the “brotherly countries of Turkiye and Egypt” were supporting the effort. March 27 Trump decided to extend the “pause” on strikes against Iranian energy infrastructure until April 6, creating the appearance of a diplomatic opening. However, experts argued it reflected an attempt to buy time amid rising military, economic and political pressures, while keeping escalation options firmly on the table. March 29 DPM Ishaq Dar said that both the US and Iran had expressed confidence in Pakistan to facilitate talks between them amid the Middle East conflict. He made these remarks in a televised address after a quadrilateral moot on the Middle East crisis. The meeting in Islamabad was also attended by the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Egypt. After the moot ended, Dar posted on X that he was pleased to welcome the foreign ministers. April 1 Pakistan and China called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the start of US-Iran talks, as Islamabad and Beijing unveiled a five-point initiative aimed at de-escalation in the Middle East. The understanding was reached during talks in Beijing between DPM Dar and Chinese FM Wang Yi, held as a follow-up to their telephone conversation on the Iran war a week earlier. April 2 In his 19-minute address from the White House, Trump repeated his claims of severely degrading Iran’s military capabilities. While he said the US was “getting very close” to finishing the “job” in Iran, he also voiced his determination to bomb the arch-foe “extremely hard” for another two to three weeks. A customer watches US President Donald Trump address the nation on the Iran crisis from the White House in Washington, DC, on screen at Brooklyn Diner in Times Square, New York, US. — Reuters April 4 Iranian FM Araghchi pushed back at reports that Iran was unwilling to travel to Islamabad for future talks with the US, underscoring that Tehran’s position hinged on the terms and conditions of any negotiations. “Iran’s position is being misrepresented by the US media. We are deeply grateful to Pakistan for its efforts and have never refused to go to Islamabad,” Araghchi said in a post on X. “What we care about are the terms of a conclusive and lasting END to the illegal war that is imposed on us,” he added. April 5 Trump ignited a political firestorm after posting an expletive-laden warning to Iran and threatening further military escalation if Tehran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz and agree to a deal. The Israel Broadcasting Authority said that alarms had been activated throughout the country’s north, including the port city of Haifa, after Iranian missiles were fired towards the country. April 7 Trump threatened to entirely decimate Iran in one night after Tehran rejected a ‘ceasefire’ proposal and instead set out demands for returning to negotiations. He warned that “a whole civilisation will die” in Iran if the country does not heed his ultimatum to accept US war demands. In a post on Truth Social, he said, “However, now that we have Complete and Total Regime Change, where different, smarter, and less radicalised minds prevail, maybe something revolutionarily wonderful can happen, WHO KNOWS? We will find out tonight, one of the most important moments in the long and complex history of the World.” Meanwhile, Iran reportedly conveyed a 10-paragraph reply through Pakistan, a key intermediary between Washington and Tehran. April 8 Pakistan announced that Iran and the US, along with their allies, had agreed to an immediate ceasefire, including in Lebanon, effective immediately, and invited their delegations to Islamabad on April 10 for talks aimed at reaching a lasting settlement of disputes. PM Shehbaz announced the ceasefire in a post on X, welcoming the move and extending his “deepest gratitude” to the leadership of both countries. April 9 Pakistan confirmed it would host US–Iran in-person talks in Islamabad, with delegations arriving for negotiations scheduled to begin on April 10 and formal discussions set for April 11. PM Shehbaz confirmed the visit of both delegations and said the talks aimed at a “conclusive agreement” to settle disputes. He also described his conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian as “warm and substantive,” praising Iran’s decision to accept Islamabad’s mediation. April 10 Islamabad was placed on high alert ahead of US–Iran peace talks, with over 10,000 security personnel deployed across the capital under a multi-tier security plan supervised by the military. Strict security protocols were enforced under the “blue book” system for visiting delegations, while all entry points to the Red Zone were sealed except Margalla Road, which was restricted to authorised use. April 11-12 United States Vice President JD Vance and his delegation arrived in Pakistan for historic talks with the Iranian leadership. Early on the same morning, the Iranian delegation also arrived in the federal capital. The delegation, led by Speaker of the Iranian Parliament Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, was received by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Field Marshal Asim Munir, and other senior officials. The talks went on for nearly 21–24 hours in Islamabad but ended without an agreement, despite multiple rounds of discussions and exchanges on key issues including nuclear policy, sanctions, regional security, and the Strait of Hormuz. Both sides confirmed that while some understanding was reached on certain points, major differences remained on core demands, preventing a final settlement. Following the talks, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar urged both sides to remain committed to the ceasefire and continue the diplomatic process, stating that Pakistan would keep facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran. He thanked both delegations for engaging in negotiations and expressed hope for continued talks aimed at lasting regional peace. US Vice President JD Vance said the discussions were “substantive” but failed because Iran did not accept key US conditions, particularly regarding a permanent commitment not to pursue nuclear weapons. He described Washington’s position as a “final and best offer” and praised Pakistan for hosting and facilitating the negotiations. Iranian officials said the talks involved detailed expert-level sessions and acknowledged progress on some issues, but noted that major gaps remained on several core points. They stressed that no agreement was expected in a single session and confirmed that the delegation had departed Islamabad following the conclusion of negotiations. April 13 The United States military announced it would begin a blockade of all Iranian ports on Monday after peace talks between US and Iranian delegations in Islamabad collapsed. In his lengthy social media post, Trump said his goal was to clear the strait of mines and reopen it to all shipping, but that Iran must not be allowed to profit from controlling the waterway. Iran rejected the US threat, calling it unlawful and warning it would not yield to pressure, with officials insisting they retain control over the Strait of Hormuz. April 14 Another round of Iran–United States dialogue was being actively pursued as Pakistan, regional capitals, and major powers stepped up efforts to prevent the fragile process from sliding back into confrontation. April 15 The United States stated it would not join any Israeli counterattack on Iran, with President Trump warning against escalation after Iran launched a large drone and missile attack on Israel in response to a suspected Israeli strike in Damascus. April 16 The US and Iran expressed willingness to hold talks again soon, with officials confirming that diplomatic channels remained open despite tensions. A Foreign Office (FO) spokesperson said that peace in Lebanon was essential for any negotiations, adding that Lebanon remained part of the ongoing two-week ceasefire framework currently in effect. April 17 The United States and Iran were reported to be negotiating a three-page draft plan to end the war, which included a proposal for Washington to release about $20 billion in frozen Iranian funds in exchange for Iran surrendering its stockpile of enriched uranium. April 20 Trump announced that US representatives were being sent to Islamabad for a second round of US–Iran peace talks, with advance teams and equipment already arriving in Pakistan ahead of the negotiations. Security was tightened in Islamabad as preparations continued for the diplomatic engagement. Separately, tensions escalated at sea after the US claimed it targeted an Iranian vessel attempting to evade a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, while Iranian media reported that its naval forces repelled the attempt in the Sea of Oman. April 21 Trump announced an extension of the Iran–US ceasefire until Tehran submitted a “unified proposal” and negotiations concluded, while stating that the naval blockade of Iranian ports would continue. He said US military forces would remain on standby and the truce would be extended following requests from Pakistan’s leadership. PM Shehbaz welcomed the decision and thanked the US for extending the ceasefire, expressing hope that both sides would reach a comprehensive peace deal during the upcoming round of talks in Islamabad. However, Iran had not yet issued a formal response, and uncertainty remained over its participation in the negotiations as diplomatic efforts continued. April 24 Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Islamabad for high-level consultations with Pakistan’s leadership on regional developments and ongoing efforts toward peace, with Foreign Office officials confirming that discussions would focus on mediation efforts and stability in the region. Meanwhile, the United States said envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner were also expected to travel to Pakistan for indirect talks mediated by Islamabad, although Iran stated it would not be holding direct meetings with the US, despite continued diplomatic engagement efforts by Pakistan. April 25 Tehran rejected a US proposal to end the conflict, insisting it would not accept any settlement dictated by Washington and reiterating conditions for a ceasefire, including an end to hostilities, reparations, and guarantees over the Strait of Hormuz. The White House said talks with Iran were still ongoing and “productive,” while Trump maintained that negotiations were continuing despite Iran’s public rejection of the reported proposal. April 27 Trump said peace talks with Iran would continue through phone-based diplomacy and praised Pakistan for facilitating the process, while confirming that Washington would not send negotiators to Islamabad for now and insisting Iran already knew the conditions for any agreement. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi continued regional consultations, meeting Pakistani officials in Islamabad before travelling onward to Moscow, while also engaging with several regional counterparts including Saudi, Turkish, and Egyptian officials on ceasefire and diplomatic efforts. Tensions remained high as Iran maintained its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and the US reported continued maritime interceptions, while international actors pushed for de-escalation and restoration of stability in key shipping routes. April 30 Trump rejected an Iranian proposal aimed at easing tensions and said the US naval blockade on Iranian ports would continue until Tehran agreed to a nuclear deal, warning that pressure would intensify if Iran failed to comply. Iran responded by warning of possible “unprecedented military action” over the continued shipping restrictions, while officials in Tehran accused Washington of using economic and maritime pressure to destabilise the country. May 1 A fourth round of US–Iran talks scheduled in Rome was postponed, with Iranian officials saying the new date would depend on Washington’s approach and accusing the US of “contradictory behaviour” and continued sanctions during negotiations. Oman confirmed the delay, citing logistical reasons, while uncertainty remained over US participation in the next round. May 2 Trump said he was still “not satisfied” with Iran’s latest proposal conveyed through Pakistan, stating that Tehran was asking for terms he could not agree to despite signs of progress in talks. He maintained that negotiations were ongoing but stressed that no acceptable deal had yet been reached. May 4 Trump announced the start of “Project Freedom,” under which the US would begin guiding neutral commercial ships out of the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a humanitarian effort to assist vessels trapped by the ongoing conflict. He said the operation was aimed at ensuring safe passage for civilian shipping and could also support broader diplomatic progress with Iran. Fire broke out at a major UAE oil industry zone on the same day after a drone attack originating from Iran, authorities said, while the Gulf state’s military also intercepted three Iranian missiles over its waters and a fourth crashed into the sea. May 5 US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said the United States was “not looking for a fight” with Iran and confirmed the ceasefire still held, but warned that any attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz would face a “devastating” response. He said US forces were providing protection for maritime traffic under “Project Freedom,” aimed at ensuring safe passage through the waterway. May 6 Trump described clashes involving Iran and regional states as a “little skirmish,” saying they did not breach the ceasefire and reiterating that Iran would face consequences if no nuclear agreement was reached. He also maintained that the ceasefire with Iran remained intact despite continued regional tensions. Tehran denied involvement in the widely condemned drone and missile attacks on the UAE. May 8 Iran’s central military command accused the United States of violating the ceasefire by attacking an oil tanker and another ship. In retaliation, Tehran’s forces “immediately and in retaliation attacked American military vessels”. May 9 US and Iranian talks were reported to be set for possible resumption in Islamabad, with mediators working to restart the stalled negotiation process. The two sides were said to be drafting a one-page, 14-point memorandum of understanding to outline a framework for a month-long dialogue aimed at ending the conflict. May 10 Iran questioned the credibility of US diplomacy amid renewed naval clashes in the Gulf, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accusing Washington of undermining ceasefire efforts while Tehran waited for a response to the latest American proposals delivered through mediators. Tensions persisted around the Strait of Hormuz, where sporadic maritime incidents continued despite a fragile pause in large-scale fighting. May 11 US and Iran were set to hold a new round of nuclear talks in Oman, with Washington taking a tougher stance and demanding “no enrichment” and full dismantlement of Iran’s key nuclear facilities. Trump said he preferred a diplomatic deal but warned that military action remained an option if talks failed, while Iran continued engagement despite widening differences and ongoing US sanctions pressure. May 14 Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Tehran did not seek war with the United States despite rising tensions over Iran’s nuclear and missile programmes, but ruled out any negotiations on a new nuclear deal, calling such talks “poison.” Trump warned that Iran would suffer severe consequences if it targeted US interests, as tensions escalated following US military deployments to the Middle East and continued disputes over sanctions and maritime security in the Gulf. May 15 Trump said the US agreed to a ceasefire with Iran “as a favour to Pakistan,” adding that the truce was reached at the request of other nations and that Washington would not have preferred it otherwise. He praised Pakistan’s leadership for facilitating the deal and said Islamabad would remain part of the ongoing diplomatic process. May 18 Iran’s Supreme National Security Council announced the formation of a new “Persian Gulf Strait Authority” to manage operations in the Strait of Hormuz, which Tehran has effectively closed amid ongoing tensions. May 20 Iran’s chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the United States was attempting to restart the Middle East war, warning of a “forceful response” if hostilities resumed. He accused Washington of maintaining military objectives despite economic and political pressure, amid renewed threats from US President Donald Trump to strike Iran unless a peace deal was reached. May 21 Pakistan intensified its mediation efforts by sending Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to Tehran for a second visit in a week, where he met Iranian leadership in a bid to break the deadlock in US–Iran negotiations amid rising regional tensions. Trump said talks were in the “final stages” but warned of renewed military action if no agreement was reached, while Iran warned that any future conflict could expand beyond the Middle East and insisted that all diplomatic options remained open. May 22 Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir arrived in Tehran as part of ongoing mediation efforts between the United States and Iran, meeting senior Iranian officials and discussing proposals aimed at ending the conflict and reviving stalled negotiations. His visit followed continued Pakistani diplomatic engagement, with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also involved in high-level talks in Tehran. US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, acknowledged Pakistan’s central role in facilitating communication between Washington and Tehran, as both sides remained under pressure to resolve disputes over Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, and security in the Strait of Hormuz. May 24 Chief of Defence Forces Asim Munir concluded a two-day visit to Tehran after intensive mediation efforts that reportedly made progress toward a possible US–Iran understanding to end the conflict and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Pakistani and Iranian officials described the talks as focused on advancing a framework deal involving ceasefire continuation, limited sanctions relief, and maritime security arrangements. Trump said negotiations were “getting closer” but remained uncertain, while Iranian officials said discussions had entered a “finalisation stage” of a memorandum of understanding, though key issues such as sanctions, nuclear limits, and control of the Strait remained unresolved. May 25 Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said the final decision on any US-Iran agreement would rest with Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, reiterating that Tehran was not seeking nuclear weapons. He stressed that Iran would not compromise its “national dignity” and would provide assurances against weaponisation. Trump said negotiations were progressing in an “orderly and constructive” manner but warned there would be no deal unless Iran’s nuclear programme was fully addressed. He added that sanctions and maritime pressure would remain until an agreement was signed, while urging his team not to rush, saying “time is on their side.” May 26 US Central Command said American forces carried out “self-defence strikes” in southern Iran, targeting missile sites and boats allegedly attempting to lay mines near strategic waters. Trump also said in a social media post he expected Iran to hand over its enriched uranium to the United States to be destroyed, or have it destroyed in Iran with an international witness. May 29 US Vice President JD Vance said the United States and Iran had made “good progress” toward a ceasefire extension deal, but President Donald Trump had not yet approved the agreement. Vance added that negotiations were continuing and expressed cautious optimism, noting that approval from Trump remained pending and the outcome was still “to be determined.” May 30 US President Donald Trump held a two-hour meeting in the White House Situation Room to review a potential agreement with Iran, amid claims from US sources that a deal was close to finalisation. However, Tehran rejected the US framing, insisting no final agreement had been reached and accusing Washington of shifting demands and “excessive conditions.” June 1 The United States carried out strikes on Iranian military sites over the weekend, targeting air defences and drones after accusing Tehran of hostile actions in international waters. US Central Command said its forces responded with “swift retaliatory action” to eliminate threats and warned it would continue operations to protect regional shipping during the ongoing ceasefire. June 2 Iran suspended indirect communications with the United States, accusing Washington of violating the ceasefire amid Israel’s expanded military operations in Lebanon. Tehran said breaches in Lebanon amounted to violations “on all fronts,” blaming both the US and Israel for escalating regional tensions. Trump downplayed the suspension, insisting talks were still moving at a “rapid pace” while also claiming he had used intermediaries to pressure Hezbollah into halting attacks. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi urged Pakistan to continue its mediation efforts, even as the fragile diplomatic process appeared increasingly strained by the widening Lebanon conflict and renewed military exchanges. June 6 US forces attacked radar sites on Iran’s coast, specifically in the city of Goruk and on Qeshm Island. This action followed the downing of four Iranian one-way attack drones launched towards the Strait of Hormuz, which the US military stated posed an immediate threat to maritime traffic. June 10 Iran announced that a sixth round of indirect nuclear talks with the United States was being planned for June 14 in Muscat, as both sides remain deadlocked over uranium enrichment and sanctions relief. Tehran said it would present a counter-proposal to Washington’s latest draft, which it criticised for lacking meaningful economic concessions. June 13 Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said a US-Iran peace deal was expected to be finalised within 24 hours, calling it closer than ever and stating that Pakistan was assisting with final technical and electronic signing arrangements. He added that a “final, agreed-upon” text had already been reached with only procedural steps remaining. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also referred to the emerging agreement as the “Islamabad memorandum of understanding,” saying all parties, including regional stakeholders and the US, had broadly approved the framework. Both sides, however, cautioned against speculation until formal signing, even as Pakistan continued its mediating role in the final stages. June 14 Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan was preparing for an “electronic signing” of a US–Iran peace framework, calling the deal “closer than ever” and expressing hope it would establish lasting peace in the region. He said the agreement could be finalised within 24 hours, with only procedural steps remaining. Trump, however, insisted the deal was scheduled to be signed immediately and linked it to broader arrangements on the Strait of Hormuz, including de-mining operations involving Washington. He warned that while diplomacy was preferred, alternative measures remained on the table if the agreement stalled. June 15 US and Iranian officials said they had agreed on a framework to end the conflict, lift key restrictions including the US blockade on Iran, and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, marking a major step toward de-escalation. US President Donald Trump announced the deal on Truth Social, while PM Shehbaz confirmed that the agreement had been reached following intensive talks between the two sides. According to PM Shehbaz, the peace deal includes an immediate and permanent cessation of military operations across all fronts, including in Lebanon, with an official signing ceremony scheduled for June 19 in Switzerland.

The United States and Iran are set to sign an interim peace deal on Friday that will reopen the Strait of Hormuz and potentially end a nearly four-month-long conflict that has killed thousands and upended the global economy. “The deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete,” US President Donald Trump said on social media on Sunday, which was also his 80th birthday. “I hereby fully authorize the toll free opening of the Strait of Hormuz” along with the “immediate removal” of the US...

US President Donald Trump and Iranian leaders say a deal has been agreed to end more than 100 days of war.

Pakistan, Qatar applaud agreement as a step towards peace and lasting tranquillity in the region.

The United States, Iran and their mediator Pakistan each announced on Sunday that Washington and Tehran had reached an agreement intended to end the conflict between them that has lasted more than 100 days. Writing on social media on Sunday, US President Donald Trump stated, “This Great Deal will bring Peace and Security to the whole Region”. Representatives for the warring countries said they would formally sign a document in Switzerland on Friday that Iran’s Supreme National Security Council...

Oil prices slipped to their lowest since March on Monday after US President Donald Trump and Iran’s deputy foreign minister said they had reached an initial deal to end the war and to resume traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude futures fell $4.08, or 4.7 per cent, to $83.25 a barrel by 0415 GMT and US West Texas Intermediate was at $80.53, down $4.35, or 5.1pc. Both contracts fell to their lowest levels since March 10 on Monday after tumbling more than 3pc on Friday. The US and Iran will sign a memorandum of understanding in Switzerland on Friday, said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who first announced the agreement. Trump said on Sunday that the Strait of Hormuz would be open “toll free” and that a US naval blockade of Iranian ports would also end. Iran’s semi-official Mehr news agency said the draft deal called for reopening the Strait of Hormuz within 30 days under Iranian arrangements. “The geopolitical risk premium that had been built into crude is now being unwound quite aggressively as traders price in the prospect of restored oil flows,” said Tim Waterer, chief market analyst at KCM Trade. The world has lost millions of barrels of oil and gas supply since the war closed the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supplies, for more than three months. Investors are also watching cautiously how quickly Middle Eastern producers can resume oil production and exports following damage from the war and whether more ships will enter the region. “While these uncertainties suggest upside risks to our forecast for Brent oil futures to reach $80/bbl by the end of the year, it’s worth noting that oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz just need to reach 60-70pc of pre-war levels to return oil markets to pre-war oversupply expectations,” Vivek Dhar, a commodities strategist at Commonwealth Bank of Australia, said in a note. Iran’s deputy foreign minister, Kazem Gharibabadi, said a more expansive agreement would be negotiated during a 60-day ceasefire period. E4 nations, which include the UK, France, Germany and Italy, said on Sunday that the countries were prepared to lift sanctions on Iran in response to steps on its nuclear programme. “Beyond the immediate price reaction, attention will now shift toward the pace of actual supply normalisation and compliance with the agreement,” said Priyanka Sachdeva, senior market analyst at Phillip Nova. “While the conflict may have come to an end and oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz may gradually return to normal, the damage already done cannot be reversed overnight. This includes not only any physical damage to oil infrastructure but also the economic strain endured by oil importing economies that have faced elevated energy costs for months.”

As Washington and Tehran edge closer to sign peace deal, concerns remain over Iran’s nuclear programme, the Strait of Hormuz, and Israel’s ongoing hostility with Hezbollah. Here’s what we know so far on the peace deal

Islamabad’s mediatory role, as well as those of other countries, was in the limelight on Monday as world leaders welcomed a much-awaited agreement between Washington and Tehran to de-escalate tensions and eventually end a war that began more than three months ago and crippled the world economy. The preliminary agreement, first announced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, is being hailed as a significant diplomatic breakthrough that could restore peace in the Middle East, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and ease global economic pressures. United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres congratulated the US and Iran for having reached a peace deal that provided for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, as well as a framework for further negotiations. “This represents a critical step towards the peaceful settlement of the conflict,” Guterres remarked. “My deep appreciation goes to Pakistan, Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and other regional countries, for the constructive role played in supporting the negotiations that led to the peace deal,” he added. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong, in a joint statement, commended the efforts to date of Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and other mediating countries. They emphasised that Australia had long called for de-escalation, including in Lebanon, and welcomed steps toward reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan described the agreement as an “important development for establishing peace and tranquility in our region”. He specifically thanked Pakistan for its exceptional mediation efforts and also appreciated the support provided by Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in its statement, extended thanks to “our brothers in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan”, as well as to all regional and international parties that contributed to the agreement. The statement highlighted Pakistan’s role in creating conditions for the memorandum of understanding on outstanding issues, including freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. French President Emmanuel Macron, in a statement, said that the agreement was the result of a diplomatic effort to which several partners have contributed, and called for its rapid and complete implementation. He said the deal also paved the way for comprehensive negotiations in for peace and security for all in the Middle East. Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi commended the efforts of the relevant countries that have played a mediating role to date. “We welcome the agreement on this memorandum as a major step toward the resolution of the situation. This is the result of the parties concerned pursuing a diplomatic solution and engaging in persistent negotiations. At the same time, we highly commend the efforts of the relevant countries that have played a mediating role to date,” she said. Takaichi expressed the hope that this memorandum will be steadily implemented, that free and safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz will be actually ensured, and that a final agreement on Iran’s nuclear issue and other matters will be realised at the earliest possible date. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz also welcomed the US-Iran deal and congratulated US President Donald Trump and the Iranian side on this diplomatic breakthrough. “This can pave the way towards a reinvigorated global economy and a more secure Middle East. It is crucial to implement it with determination,” he added. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer warmly welcomed the agreement, describing it as a hugely important step forward in ending the war, ensuring regional stability and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. He specifically congratulated President Trump and the mediators from Pakistan, Qatar and elsewhere who have contributed to this breakthrough. Starmer stressed the need for the full implementation of the memorandum of understanding to ensure permanent freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and to finalise details of the nuclear agreement. New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters welcomed the deal, calling it a step towards reducing tensions and promoting stability in a region that is critical to global economic security.

Global markets surged as the US and Iran announced a framework agreement to end their conflict, leading to hopes of lower energy prices and easing inflation. The Strait of Hormuz reopened, causing oil prices to tumble and boosting investor appetite for riskier assets. Asian equities rallied significantly, while the US dollar weakened against major currencies.

Antonio Guterres reaffirms that the United Nations stands ready to support the parties in achieving a durable and comprehensive peace

The Secretary-General expressed “deep appreciation" for the constructive role played by Pakistan, Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and other regional countries in supporting the negotiations

Meanwhile, Japan’s Nikkei 225 index jumped 4.99% and South Korea’s benchmark Kospi index soared 5.54%

The Nikkei 225 Index jumped as much as 5.5 per cent to 69,657.09, surpassing the 69,000 level for the first time.

US and Iranian officials said they had agreed on a framework to end the war, halt the US blockade of Iran and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a preliminary pact that sent oil prices falling but leaves the fate of Iran’s nuclear programme to further negotiations. “The Deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete,” US President Donald Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform around 5:30pm ET local time in Washington (2130 GMT) on Sunday. His post came shortly after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a deal had been struck early on Monday local time. PM Shehbaz said in a post on X that “following intensive talks, we are pleased to announce that the Peace Deal between the United States of America and Islamic Republic of Iran has been REACHED. Both sides have declared the immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon”. He added that the “official signing ceremony” would be on Friday, June 19, in Switzerland. “We would like to thank the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran for their commitment to finding a diplomatic solution to the conflict. We would also like to extend our sincere appreciation to our brothers in this mediation effort, the great leadership of state of Qatar, for their support in reaching this agreement. I would also especially thank the visionary leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Turkiye for their immense contributions in this regard,” he said. PM Shehbaz added that with the agreement now in place, mediators would facilitate a series of meetings this week. “These pre-implementation discussions will lay the foundation for the technical talks and the official signing ceremony,” he said. In a statement, the secretariat of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council said war and military operations on all fronts, including Lebanon, would end permanently starting on Monday night. Lebanon has been a sticking point in negotiations, with Israel ignoring calls from Trump and others to stop its attacks on Lebanon in recent weeks. Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said in televised comments that the deal put an “immediate end” to the countries’ war and that they would hold talks within two months to seek a “final agreement.” Just hours earlier, Tehran had vowed to retaliate against a strike by Israel in the suburbs of Beirut, which threatened to push back an agreement. There was no immediate reaction to the announcement of the agreement from Israel, which has said it was not a party to the US-Iran talks. Strait to reopen Trump said the Strait of Hormuz, a major shipping route for global oil and gas supplies that Iran has effectively shut down for months, would open on Friday, and that he had ordered the end of the US blockade of Iranian ports. “Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow!” Trump wrote. Oil prices fell on the news. Brent crude futures fell four per cent in early trading on Monday, while US West Texas Intermediate slid more than 4.6pc. Stock markets in Asia jumped. Details remain unclear The contents of the agreement, which followed weeks of fraught negotiations and periodic threats from Trump of fresh hostilities unless Iran reached a deal, remained unclear. Iran’s Mehr news agency reported that the US will release $12 billion in frozen assets to Iran before the start of negotiations. It quoted a 14-point “memorandum of understanding” (MoU) between the two nations, which it said stipulated “the release of 24 billion dollars in frozen Iranian assets during the 60-day negotiation period” that begins after the MoU is signed. The Trump administration did immediately comment on the details of the agreement, which may prove contentious as the US presses its effort to end Tehran’s nuclear ambitions and deal with its stockpile of highly enriched uranium — believed to have been buried by US strikes last year. Sources told Reuters that the fate of Iran’s nuclear program, another thorny issue, will also be addressed in those later talks. Thousands of people have been killed, mostly in Iran and Lebanon, since US and Israeli forces first attacked Iran on February 28. Iran has struck Israel and Gulf states hosting US bases and has effectively blockaded the Strait of Hormuz, pushing up global energy prices. US forces have blocked Iranian ports in response. The Iran war has become a political liability at home for Trump and his fellow Republicans in Congress, with public opinion polls showing Americans deeply frustrated by rising gas prices ahead of November’s midterm elections. But Trump has also faced pressure from members of his own party who insist that Iran’s nuclear programme must be completely shut down. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, a leading Iran hawk, praised the deal but said he would be “watching closely” the coming negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme. “Under our law, any nuclear deal with Iran will be sent to Congress for review and a vote,” he said. “Congratulations to all in getting us to this point.” During his first term, Trump withdrew the US from a 2015 multilateral Iran deal, negotiated by Democratic President Barack Obama, that lifted sanctions on Tehran in exchange for limits on its nuclear programme, including international inspections. Iran responded by ramping up its enrichment of uranium, producing more than 400 kg of material at close to bomb-grade purity. The eventual fate of that uranium is likely to be a key negotiating point during the upcoming talks. ‘A very difficult guy’ The agreement was sealed despite an Israeli strike on Lebanon on Sunday that drew criticism from both Iran and Trump. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has differed with Trump over American demands that Israel curb its military action in Lebanon to allow the United States to reach a deal with Iran. Israel has said it will retain freedom of operations in Lebanon, while Iran has made a full ceasefire there an important component of its demands. Trump updated Netanyahu on the progress toward a peace deal during a phone call on Sunday, Israel’s N12 reported, citing a senior official. In an interview with the New York Times, Trump called Netanyahu “a very difficult guy” and argued the Israeli leader should thank him for saving Israel from a nuclear-armed Iran. Leaders outside the Middle East, who have kept a wary eye on the conflict, welcomed the announcement of a deal. In a joint statement, the United Kingdom, Germany, France and Italy said they were prepared to lift sanctions on Iran in response to “clear, verifiable steps” to limit its nuclear programme. “We are clear that toll-free freedom of navigation must now be restored in the Strait of Hormuz,” British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said. “Iran must never have a nuclear weapon.”

The accord halts hostilities in the war that began in February but leaves unresolved the critical issue of Iran’s nuclear program.

Trump said the Strait of Hormuz will open on Friday after the official signing of the agreement

Trump says a US-Iran deal will be signed this Friday, as Tehran confirms plans to end hostilities.

Pakistan says the deal includes Lebanon, but recent ceasefires there have failed to take hold.

Pakistan says the deal includes Lebanon, but recent ceasefires there have failed to take hold.

Under the agreement, the key Strait of Hormuz waterway will be reopened, US President Donald Trump said.

US and Iran agreed to an “immediate and permanent” end to military operations under a surprise memorandum of understanding, announced via mediator Pakistan on Sunday, with both sides confirming a signing ceremony in Switzerland. The agreement includes plans to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, ease sanctions, and begin further negotiations over nuclear issues.

Asian stock markets surge as Washington and Tehran announce agreement to end hostiles and reopen Strait of Hormuz.

Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that both sides have declared the immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon

US and Iranian officials said they have agreed on a peace framework for a deal to end their war, halt the US blockade of Iran and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, possibly leading to lower energy prices once oil shipments resume through the critical waterway.

US President Donald Trump said a framework agreement has been reached to halt fighting in the Middle East, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and end the US blockade of Iranian ports.

The United States and Iran agreed a peace deal and an "immediate and permanent" end to military operations on all fronts including Lebanon, mediator Pakistan said, signaling the apparent end to more than three months of war in Middle East. Pakistani Prime Minister Shebhaz Sharif posted on X that a peace deal "has been REACHED" and an official signing ceremony will be held on June 19 in Switzerland. "The Deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete," US President Donald Trump swiftly confirmed with his own statement on Sunday, as he marked his 80th birthday. The accord is set to be signed in Switzerland on the 19th of June. It follows weeks of discussions and back and forth attacks from both nations, with Iran threatening as late as Sunday to retaliate for Israel's deadly strikes on Lebanon.

Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif has announced a peace deal between the US and Iran, with a signing ceremony on June 19. Sharif said both sides would terminate military operations, including in Lebanon. DW has more.

President Trump said the U.S. would remove its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

The United States and Iran have reached a deal to end their war and will hold an official signing ceremony on Friday in Geneva, Switzerland, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on social media early on Monday. “The Deal with ‌the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete,” US President Donald Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform shortly after Sharif made his announcement. The agreement was struck despite an Israeli strike on Lebanon on Sunday that drew criticism from both Iran and...

US President Donald Trump and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced Sunday that a landmark agreement has been reached with Iran to reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz and end the American naval blockade. “The Deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete. Congratulations to all!” Trump posted on social media without providing any details of the agreement. “I hereby fully authorise the toll free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and, simultaneously herewith, authorise the...

Trump said on Sunday that a peace deal with Iran is “now complete,” announcing the Strait of Hormuz is open and the United States will lift its naval blockade

Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif has announced a peace deal between the US and Iran, with a signing ceremony on June 19. Sharif claimed both sides would terminate military operations, including in Lebanon. DW has more.

The United States "will not upfront cash" and "this is going to be, in terms of any unfrozen assets or sanctions relief, what's called pay for performance", US Permanent Representative to the United Nations Mike Waltz said

For a few hours on Saturday, it appeared that the long diplomatic effort led by Pakistan to end the US-Iran war was approaching its culmination. President Donald Trump spoke of signing an agreement on Sunday, while Pakistani and Qatari mediators echoed the same with high confidence. Interestingly enough, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also remarked that a deal had never been closer. Still, within hours, Tehran publicly pushed back against reports that a signing ceremony was imminent, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei making it clear that no agreement would be signed that day. Still, as these lines were being written, it was not clear whether the delay was temporary or whether the negotiators were struggling to bridge differences that remain unresolved. Such uncertainty, in any case, isn’t unusual in diplomacy especially when it is taking place between arch rivals like the US and Iran. Even so, the broad contours of the proposed arrangement are now sufficiently visible to assess what kind of agreement is taking shape and why it is generating sharply different reactions among the stakeholders. More of a stopgap measure The first point to understand is that the proposed memorandum does not appear to be a peace agreement in the conventional sense. It has not been, as per the details leaked so far, formulated to resolve the dispute over Iran’s nuclear program, settle issues pertaining to sanctions, address the regional balance of power, or settle the future of Iran’s regional partners and allies. Instead, it is emerging as an armistice plus framework essentially prepared to stop escalation, reopen the Strait of Hormuz for restarting regional trade halted due to hostilities and create a structured negotiating process for unresolved disputes. That distinction matters because the agreement is being driven less by reconciliation than by exhaustion of the warring sides. After months of confrontation, missile exchanges, attacks on military facilities, disruption of maritime traffic and mounting economic losses, both sides appear to have concluded that continued escalation carried greater risks than an imperfect compromise. The emerging arrangement, therefore, looks less like a grand bargain and more like a temporary stabilisation mechanism reached after a costly confrontation in which neither side achieved enough to justify prolonging the conflict. The most defensible reading of the draft texts and public statements available so far is that the agreement would establish a renewable 60-day truce built around a limited number of practical measures. Those measures include the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, removal of obstacles affecting maritime traffic, gradual easing of the American blockade affecting Iranian shipping and ports, temporary sanctions waivers, partial release of frozen Iranian funds and the launch of a diplomatic process to address more difficult questions at a later stage. Therefore, a conservative reading of the imminent deal is that its immediate objective is to restore stability in the Gulf rather than resolve the disputes that produced the war. That also explains why the nuclear file remains the least settled aspect of the proposed arrangement. The emerging framework has, therefore, been designed not to resolve the issue but to postpone it until after a broader agreement is secured. The nuclear issue American officials continue to present the process as a pathway towards eventual dismantlement of Iran’s nuclear program and disposition of its highly enriched uranium stockpile. Iranian officials, meanwhile, insist that the memorandum presently under discussion is focused on ending hostilities and restoring stability, while nuclear issues would be addressed separately at a later stage. The available drafts appear to reflect this contradiction rather than resolve it. References reportedly exist to future discussions on stockpile management, downblending and longer-term enrichment restrictions, yet the same texts suggest that the nuclear file is effectively deferred until after the expected MoU takes effect. Diplomatically speaking, it is a process agreement intended to create conditions under which such negotiations might later become possible. The same caution applies to reports that the imminent MoU includes mutual non-attack guarantees and non-interference commitments in Iran’s domestic affairs by the US. Economic terms The economic component of the proposed MoU is equally important. According to details circulating in diplomatic and regional circles, Iran will reopen the Strait of Hormuz for commercial navigation without imposing transit tariffs on passing vessels, although it would be able to charge for ancillary services such as fuel, insurance, port support and environmental protection measures. The arrangement would also create a pathway for the release of approximately $12 billion in Iranian assets frozen abroad, though not entirely in the form Tehran had originally sought. Iranian negotiators reportedly pressed for direct access to the funds, while the US wants a mechanism under which a substantial portion of the money would used only for humanitarian purposes. Draft texts circulating in diplomatic circles contain language relating to reciprocal restraint and respect for sovereignty. However, these provisions remain unconfirmed and should be best seen as draft level formulations rather than established commitments. Their inclusion, if it finally happens, would carry considerable political significance, particularly for Tehran, but one can only hope that they will survive into the final text. These issues, besides others, may explain the reluctance by the relevant stakeholders despite visible diplomatic momentum. The symbolism of it all Some commentary in Iran has attributed the objection to signing on Sunday to symbolism. Those pushing this notion suggest that Tehran may be reluctant to hand President Trump a diplomatic success on his birthday. Similar explanation has also been given for having the MoU digitally signed. Tehran doesn’t want to give a picture of peace deal signing to Trump, which he can flaunt around. Symbolism undoubtedly matters in Iranian politics, where perceptions of dignity and resistance often influence political decision making. But as external observers, merely focusing on symbolism risks overlooking the more substantive debate already underway inside Iran. The strongest resistance to the MoU is coming from conservative political circles and constituencies associated with the Revolutionary Guards, who are deeply concerned about the sequencing of concessions that Iran is believed to be giving to the US, especially with regard to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Their argument is relatively straightforward, which is that after reopening Hormuz, Iran will be left with reduced leverage, which it accumulated during the conflict as it would enter the main negotiations. The critics, who include some powerful voices, insist that Iran, in return, is merely getting promises of sanctions relief, access to frozen assets and economic normalisation that would unfold gradually and remain subject to future political decisions in Washington. For many in Tehran, the memory of the 2015 nuclear agreement and the subsequent US withdrawal from it remains difficult to ignore. The central question raised by critics is therefore not whether diplomacy is desirable, but whether Iranian concessions are being front loaded while American obligations remain conditional and reversible. This internal debate appears to be exerting greater influence on the timing of the agreement than procedural issues surrounding the signing of the MoU itself. The intensive diplomatic activity that followed Tehran’s hesitation to signing on the day announced by Trump reflected the fear among mediators that a delay may lead to unexpected complications. Flurry of diplomatic activity Reports from multiple diplomatic channels suggest that both Pakistan and Qatar intensified contacts with Iranian officials after the statement that signing will not be done on Sunday. Qatari engagement has been publicly acknowledged, while regional diplomats suggested that a late-night conversation between the Chief of Defence Forces and the Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir and Araghchi on the issue also took place. Although not all such accounts have been independently verified, they illustrate the degree to which regional actors have become invested in securing an agreement. That investment is understandable because almost every regional actor sees potential benefits in stabilisation, even if their reasons differ. For Gulf states, the priority is straightforward. They are eagerly waiting for reopened shipping lanes, reduced risks to energy infrastructure and lower prospects of a wider regional war. For Washington, the agreement would provide an opportunity to prevent renewed escalation while preserving diplomatic leverage over the nuclear issue and also something for President Trump to celebrate after a war, which he launched, but didn’t go as per his design. For Tehran, the arrangement offers economic breathing space and partial relief from the pressures created by war and sanctions. But Iran appears to also be placing a premium on dignity and showing that it is keeping an upper hand in the process. Israel’s calculations remain more complicated. Israeli policymakers would welcome any arrangement that constrains Iran, but remain sceptical of agreements that leave Tehran with residual nuclear capabilities or place limits on Israel’s future military options. The Lebanon file, meanwhile, may provide an early indication of the durability of the broader framework. Although the emerging agreement appears to promise wider regional de-escalation, the future of Hezbollah remains unresolved. Events over the past 10 days leave little doubt that any serious deterioration in the Israel-Lebanon theatre could quickly test the understandings currently being negotiated. Ultimately, the significance of the agreement will depend less on the ceremony surrounding its signature than on the details contained in the final text. Once the details become fully public, subsequent to the signing of MoU, it will be crucial to find out how sanctions relief is sequenced, whether frozen assets are released immediately or conditionally, what obligations become effective at the outset, what commitments are postponed to later phases, and what mechanisms exist for dealing with violations and importantly can Iran revert to closure of Strait of Hormuz if it feels that promises have not been kept. Those details will determine whether the memorandum becomes the starting point of a broader diplomatic process or merely a pause before another cycle of confrontation.

Iran and the U.S. draft a deal easing sanctions and addressing nuclear issues within 60 days.

A draft memorandum between Iran and the US reportedly includes Iran's commitment to not produce nuclear weapons and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The US would lift its naval blockade and provide sanctions relief, including releasing frozen Iranian assets. Both sides are expected to finalize implementation details in the coming days.

Follow developments as US and Pakistani leaders forecast a signing today of a framework deal to end the war between the US and Iran

US says a deal to stop the war on Iran could be signed as early as Sunday. Tehran, however, disputes the timeline.

US and Pakistani leaders predicted a Sunday signing of an agreement to end the war against Iran, with US President Donald Trump saying the critical Strait of Hormuz would be "open to all" immediately after. Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei had said earlier on Saturday that the date of the signing was yet to be determined, but that it would not be on Sunday. Follow our liveblog for the latest updates.

Iran has cast doubts over the signing of a framework agreement to end the conflict in the Middle East.

US and Pakistani leaders forecast a signing today of a long-elusive framework agreement to end fighting between the US and Iran, but Tehran cast doubt over the timing and hardline protesters in Iran voiced opposition.

Pakistan's prime minister, a key mediator in U.S.-Iran talks to end the war, said Saturday that a peace deal was closer "than ever before," and could be finalized "in the next 24 hours."

U.S. and Iran have released conflicting information about the contents of the deal, as each seeks to show it emerged from the war with the upper hand

After that the Strait of Hormuz will be fully unblocked, said US President

Both sides have indicated a deal to end the war is close, but have diverged on details and timeline for a breakthrough.

Before the US president's comments, Iran expressed caution about the exact timing.

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday that an initial deal to end the war in the Middle East would be signed on Sunday, although Iran denied the signing would take place so soon. Trump added in a social media post that the Strait of Hormuz, a ‌vital artery for global oil supplies which Iran has blocked, would be immediately “open to all” after the deal is signed. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the two sides had agreed on a framework for a peace deal and that Islamabad was...

Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif hinted that a peace deal between the US and Iran could be finalized within 24 hours, marking a significant diplomatic breakthrough. Both nations have indicated progress, with an agreed-upon text reportedly reached. US officials, however, urge caution against speculation, emphasizing that economic benefits for Iran are contingent on fulfilling commitments.

Mediator Pakistan has said the deal could be finalized "in the next 24 hours," but Iran says an agreement is unlikely to be confirmed on Sunday. DW has more.

Trump said the Strait of Hormuz will reopen soon after the deal is signed. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had said the "finalization likely expected in the next 24 hours." Follow DW for more.

Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said Friday that a draft agreement to end the war with the United States could be signed remotely within days, adding that negotiations had reached their final stages. Araghchi said the framework would address the US naval blockade and the future administration of the Strait of Hormuz. Follow our liveblog for the latest updates.

The Mehr news agency published a draft deal with the United States which would, if adopted, secure the release of $24 billion in frozen assets within a 60-day period