The United States and Iran are on the verge of reaching a deal to end the ongoing conflict and reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Saturday that the agreement aimed at resolving the Middle East conflict is expected to be finalized soon. Pakistan is set to engage in the electronic signing of the agreement, followed by technical discussions next week.
The White House has not commented on the status of the negotiations or the potential timeline for signing the deal. However, Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson indicated that while a signing is not expected on Sunday, it could happen in the following days. Previous announcements of a breakthrough have not been successful.
Recent hostilities between Iran, the U.S., and Israel, including intercepted Iranian drones targeting commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, have threatened to reignite a full-scale war in the region. A ceasefire, in place since April 7, has temporarily halted the conflict initiated by the U.S. and Israel at the end of February, severely disrupting oil and gas shipments from the Persian Gulf.
Focus on Iran’s Nuclear Program
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that within 60 days of signing the deal, terms addressing Iran’s nuclear program would be finalized, with a possibility of extending this period. The U.S. and Israel are concerned that Iran’s nuclear program may lead to nuclear weapons, while Iran insists its program is intended for peaceful purposes.
A senior U.S. official, speaking anonymously, revealed that the agreement entails dismantling or removing Tehran’s high-enriched uranium. The 60-day timeframe post-signing will focus on technical aspects of uranium removal, though the responsible entity has not been clarified. This uranium is believed to be located at three nuclear sites targeted by previous U.S. strikes.
Reopening the Strait of Hormuz
The proposed agreement includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Araghchi mentioned Iran’s desire for an arrangement that permits Tehran to impose charges on ships passing through the strait for services rendered. During the conflict, Iran enacted a toll system viewed by some nations as violating international law.
The strait is a critical oil and gas shipping corridor, and disruptions have led to increased fuel prices and higher costs for essentials worldwide.
Iranian Sanctions Relief
Three regional officials have indicated that the agreement includes a gradual lifting of sanctions on Iran and the release of frozen Iranian assets, although they spoke anonymously due to negotiation sensitivities. A signing ceremony is anticipated after official approval in Washington and Tehran.
Situation in Lebanon
The potential agreement also touches on Lebanon, where Iran requires a ceasefire amid ongoing clashes involving the Iranian-supported Hezbollah group. Israel, however, maintains its position and may act independently toward Iran, according to Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz. Israel plans to retain its presence in Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, and certain areas in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.
Hostilities continued in southern Lebanon as of Saturday, leaving the future of the region uncertain.
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