Reports from Tel Aviv indicate the United States and Iran may be nearing an agreement to conclude their conflict and restore access to the Strait of Hormuz.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced Friday that both nations have reached consensus on the language of a potential agreement designed to halt their Middle Eastern conflict, with mediators continuing efforts to complete the arrangement.
Past announcements of similar diplomatic breakthroughs have not come to fruition.
This potential diplomatic progress follows a three-day period of military exchanges between Iran, the U.S., and Israel earlier this week, raising concerns about regional escalation. U.S. Central Command reported Friday via social media that it successfully intercepted multiple Iranian attack drones targeting merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
The conflict, initiated by the U.S. and Israel on February 28, has destabilized the Middle East and essentially halted petroleum and natural gas transport from the Persian Gulf. A temporary ceasefire has remained in effect since April 7.
Key details of the potential agreement:
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated Friday that nuclear program arrangements would be completed within 60 days following the initial agreement’s signing, with possible extensions available.
Tehran’s nuclear capabilities remain a central dispute. American and Israeli officials worry about potential weapons development — a primary justification they provided for military action. Iran maintains its nuclear activities serve civilian purposes.
A senior U.S. administration official, speaking anonymously under White House briefing protocols, confirmed Friday that the proposed agreement would initiate procedures for eliminating or relocating Tehran’s weapons-grade uranium.
The official explained the 60-day post-signing period would address technical aspects of uranium removal. Details remain unclear regarding oversight of the removal process for materials reportedly stored beneath three nuclear facilities damaged in American attacks last year.
The U.S. official confirmed the proposed agreement contains provisions for strait reopening.
Araghchi indicated Iran seeks terms allowing Tehran to collect fees “for services rendered” from vessels using the Strait of Hormuz. Iran implemented a fee structure during the conflict that the U.S. and other countries consider internationally illegal.
Disrupted passage through the Strait of Hormuz, essential for global oil and gas transport, has constrained worldwide energy availability, increased fuel costs, and raised prices for food and essential goods far beyond the immediate region.
Three regional officials, speaking anonymously due to negotiation sensitivity, reported the developing agreement likely includes gradual sanctions relief for Iran and release of frozen Iranian funds.
These sources anticipate a formal signing ceremony within days pending approval from Washington and Tehran officials.
