US-Iran: Preliminary deal reached to end Middle East war

The United States and Iran, with Pakistan acting as mediator, have announced a preliminary agreement aimed at ending the war in the Middle East. The framework, outlining key points for a resolution, is expected to be formally signed in the coming days.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that both sides have agreed to an immediate and permanent halt to all military operations. The memorandum of understanding is slated for signing this Friday in Switzerland. According to an Iranian deputy foreign minister, Kazem Gharibabadi, the document will be made public after its signature.

Crucially, the agreement includes the resumption of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and the phased lifting of U.S. sanctions on Iranian ports. Negotiations on more contentious issues, such as Iran's nuclear program and the scope of U.S. sanctions, are set to continue within sixty days.

U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that the Strait of Hormuz will reopen on Friday and that he has ordered the lifting of the blockade on Iranian ports. An Iranian official noted that the passage would be open to all commercial vessels post-memorandum signing. However, a retired admiral cautioned that de-mining operations in the area could take considerable time. The Iranian news agency Fars reported that maritime traffic in the Strait will be regulated by Iran in coordination with Oman under the memorandum.

Both nations reaffirmed Iran's commitment not to produce or acquire nuclear weapons, a long-standing position from Tehran. An Iranian official added that Iran will freeze its nuclear activities, including uranium enrichment and facility expansion, pending a final agreement. The U.S. has agreed that Iran can dilute its enriched uranium stockpiles domestically as part of a future comprehensive deal. Trump indicated no rush in removing nuclear material, stating it would occur when "everything is calm." He also mentioned a robust inspection regime for Iran, without providing specifics. U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham stressed that any final nuclear deal would require Congressional approval.

An Iranian official stated that the U.S. has agreed not to impose new sanctions until a final agreement is reached. Furthermore, the U.S. will temporarily lift sanctions on oil exports, and all American and international sanctions will be lifted following the final agreement.

“

δεν υπάρχει βιασύνη για την απομάκρυνση του πυρηνικού υλικού, αυτό θα πραγματοποιηθεί «όταν όλα θα είναι ήρεμα».