A potential deal to end the ongoing conflict in Iran seems closer than ever, with Pakistan, a key mediator, expressing unprecedented optimism. Statements from involved parties hint at a growing momentum toward peace.
U.S. President Donald Trump recently shared on social media that the agreement might be signed soon, indicating the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. He wrote that while the signing won’t occur tomorrow, the possibility of it happening in the following days remains high. Electronic signatures are expected from all participating sides.
As scheduled, Trump plans to address demining the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for oil and gas transit, at the upcoming Group of Seven summit. Iran’s control over the strait, established early in the conflict, has severely disrupted energy shipments from the Persian Gulf. Consequently, the U.S. has enforced a blockade on Iranian ports.
Efforts to end the war have gained traction since the ceasefire on April 7. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that a deal is imminent, possibly within 24 hours, with a scheduled electronic signing ceremony. Discussions continue regarding the memorandum of understanding, which aims to resolve the war and exclude nuclear issues. Iran remains cautious, recalling past talks that resulted in hostilities involving the U.S. and Israel.
While Trump’s social media posts affirm progress and hint at plans to neutralize enriched uranium, Iran’s exchanges of gunfire with U.S. and Israeli forces earlier this week have threatened to disrupt the ceasefire and revitalize tensions.
The recent death of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei marks a significant event in Iran’s political landscape. Funeral activities will occur in July during Muharram, a period of mourning, beginning in Tehran and moving through key cities—Qom and Mashhad. Khamenei’s successor, his son Mojtaba, remains out of the public eye since the war’s onset. The late Khamenei revolutionized the Islamic Republic, succeeding Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, who led the overthrow of the shah. Khamenei expanded the Shiite clerical influence and empowered the Revolutionary Guard, enhancing its military and business stature.
Collaborative efforts to demine the Strait are expected from G7 members, including Britain and France, once the conflict eases. However, the number of mines remains uncertain.