U.S. and Iran Reach Agreement to End War, Open Strait of Hormuz
The United States and Iran have reached an agreement to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, bringing relief to the global economy after more than three months of conflict, according to Pakistani officials. The deal is expected to be signed Friday in Switzerland, with details yet to be disclosed, and broader negotiations on unresolved issues like Iran’s nuclear program will continue over the next 60 days, Pakistani officials said.
U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the deal on social media, stating that he authorized the immediate lifting of the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz. Trump wrote, “Congratulations to all! I hereby fully authorize the toll free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and, simultaneously, the immediate removal of the United States Naval blockade.”
Iran’s deputy foreign minister, Kazem Gharibabadi, confirmed the agreement on state television but said implementation would only begin after the formal signing. He added that the deal followed over 14 hours of talks in Tehran with a Qatari mediator.
Pakistan’s prime minister, Shehbaz Sharif, announced that both sides had declared an immediate and permanent ceasefire on all fronts, including in Lebanon. The announcement came amid reports of Israeli attacks on Hezbollah targets in Beirut’s southern suburbs, which threatened to derail negotiations.
The deal is expected to restore the region to a pre-war status quo, though Iran’s influence along the shipping route remains a concern. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical passage for global oil, natural gas, and related exports. Its closure over the past few months disrupted global markets and heightened geopolitical tensions.
Despite the agreement, Iran’s nuclear program remains a contentious issue. Tehran continues to possess enriched uranium close to weapons-grade levels and has not publicly committed to relinquishing it. The U.S. and its allies remain wary of Iran’s missile capabilities and support for regional proxies like Hezbollah.
The negotiations have been complicated by internal disagreements within Iran and regional tensions, including recent Israeli operations in Lebanon. The agreement’s success depends on both sides adhering to the terms and addressing ongoing concerns, including Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
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