US and Iran say pact to end Middle East war is 'closer than ever'

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif declared on Friday that the United States and Iran have reached an agreement on the wording of a deal intended to conclude their conflict in the Middle East. Mediators are actively engaged with both warring nations to finalize the pact, which Sharif suggested could be signed within days.

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The United States and Iran have agreed on a final text.

"The United States and Iran have agreed on a final text," Sharif stated, adding that Pakistan, which has been leading mediation efforts, is collaborating with the involved countries on the subsequent steps. He conveyed optimism, noting on X, "Peace has never been closer than now."

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Peace has never been closer than now.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi echoed this sentiment, also posting on X that an agreement "has never been closer." He indicated that the deal might be signed digitally in the coming days, followed by an official announcement. Araghchi expressed an 85% confidence level in the agreement's finalization, describing the draft as fulfilling the core objectives set by the US president at the war's outset.

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An agreement 'has never been closer'.

The proposed agreement reportedly includes provisions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, dismantling Iran's nuclear program, and ceasing Iran's funding of violence in the region. In return, Iran would receive sanctions relief, enabling its reintegration into the global economy, though funds would not be released until compliance is confirmed. The deal also addresses conflicts in Lebanon and other Middle Eastern fronts. An announcement regarding the future control of the Strait of Hormuz is anticipated soon, with Araghchi clarifying that the waterway would not revert to its pre-war operational status, instead implementing "service fees" for transit.

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We expect to sign this agreement in the coming days. I cannot give you an exact date.