US, Iran inch closer to deal, timing remains unclear

U.S. and Pakistani leaders projected a Sunday signing for a long-sought framework agreement aimed at ending hostilities between the United States and Iran. President Donald Trump announced on social media Saturday that the deal was slated for the following day, which was also his 80th birthday. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif corroborated this, stating that both sides had agreed on a peace deal framework and that Islamabad was preparing for an electronic signing on Sunday.

However, Iran cast doubt on the timing of the signing. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei, speaking before Trump's post, cautioned against premature commentary on the signing's schedule. He was quoted by state media as saying, "It will not be tomorrow," but added that an agreement could be reached "in the coming days."

Hardline protesters in Iran also voiced opposition to the potential deal. Despite the differing signals on timing, Trump's post indicated that following the framework agreement's signing, the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint, would be a key focus.

“

It will not be tomorrow, but it could happen in the coming days.