ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Monday that the United States and Iran have reached a peace agreement after extensive diplomatic efforts aimed at ending months of tensions and conflict.
According to the prime minister, both countries have agreed to an immediate and permanent halt to military operations across all fronts, including Lebanon. The agreement is expected to be formally signed in Switzerland on June 19.
In a statement shared on X, Shehbaz praised the role of Qatar in facilitating dialogue between the two sides. He also acknowledged the contributions of Saudi Arabia and Turkiye, describing their leadership and diplomatic engagement as important factors in achieving the breakthrough.
The prime minister said that mediators will oversee a series of meetings during the week to discuss implementation details and prepare for technical negotiations ahead of the signing ceremony.
Trump Declares Agreement Finalized
US President Donald Trump also confirmed the development, stating on Truth Social that the agreement with Iran had been completed. His announcement came shortly after Pakistan revealed that a deal had been reached.
Trump indicated that the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments that has faced disruptions for months, would reopen on Friday. He added that the United States would end its blockade of Iranian ports, allowing maritime trade and energy exports to resume.
Describing the accord as a major diplomatic achievement, Trump said it would contribute to greater peace and security throughout the region. He argued that previous administrations had failed to secure such an understanding with Tehran.
Future Negotiations Planned
Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi stated that broader negotiations would take place during a proposed 60-day ceasefire period. These discussions are expected to address sanctions relief and other outstanding issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme.
Qatar Welcomes Progress
Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani welcomed the agreement and thanked Pakistan along with other regional and international partners for helping create conditions that made the breakthrough possible.
He expressed hope that upcoming negotiations would proceed in a constructive manner and reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment to supporting dialogue-based solutions that promote regional stability and security.
International Reactions
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also welcomed the agreement, emphasizing the importance of restoring freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. He reiterated the position that Iran should not acquire nuclear weapons.
The conflict, which began after US and Israeli military actions against Iran on February 28, has resulted in thousands of deaths, particularly in Iran and Lebanon. The fighting has also affected regional security and global energy markets, as disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz contributed to rising oil prices.
While the United States and Iran move toward implementation of the agreement, Israel has stated that it is not a participant in the deal.
The conflict has additionally become a domestic political challenge for Trump and congressional Republicans, as rising fuel prices have increased public concern ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.
