Pakistan brokers historic US-Iran deal

June 18, 2026 (MLN): An electronically signed memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran has been formally declared by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, marking a landmark diplomatic breakthrough facilitated by Pakistan.

Confirmed by the prime minister through his official X account, the 'Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding' bears the signatures of both heads of state US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and has been endorsed by Shehbaz Sharif in his capacity as mediator.

The declaration came three days after Shehbaz Sharif had first declared that a deal had been reached between the two nations.

The MoU entered into force with immediate effect. Under its initial provisions, Iran will instantly reopen the Strait of Hormuz while the United States will lift its naval blockade simultaneously.

Pakistan, alongside co-mediator Qatar, will host a formal signing ceremony on June 19 in Switzerland, where technical-level talks are also set to commence.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the G7 summit in France before his departure, President Trump credited Pakistan and Qatar for their role in advancing the negotiations, repeatedly describing the agreement as a pathway to broader regional stability.

Prime Minister Shehbaz extended congratulations to both leaderships, commending Trump's preference for diplomatic resolution and acknowledging the contributions of the US negotiating team, including Vice President J.D. Vance, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner.

He also expressed appreciation for Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei and President Pezeshkian for their statesmanship, along with the Iranian negotiating team comprising Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Abbas Araghchi, and Eskandar Momeni.

The prime minister additionally recognised the supporting roles of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Egypt in enabling the agreement.

A special mention was reserved for Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, whose efforts Sharif described as instrumental in facilitating the breakthrough and advancing regional peace and stability.

Shehbaz Sharif expressed hope that the memorandum would serve as an enduring foundation for mutual respect and shared prosperity across the region.

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