PM Shehbaz Sharif announces immediate reopening of Strait of Hormuz and lifting of US naval blockade under landmark agreement.
Image: WSJ
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday announced the signing of the historic “Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding” between the United States and Iran, marking a major diplomatic breakthrough aimed at ending months of regional tensions.
According to the premier, the agreement was electronically signed by the presidents of both countries and endorsed by Pakistan in its role as mediator. As part of the first phase of the deal, Iran will immediately reopen the Strait of Hormuz, while the United States will lift its naval blockade without delay.
Shehbaz praised the leadership of US President Donald Trump and Iranian authorities for choosing diplomacy over confrontation, describing the agreement as a significant step toward regional peace and stability. He also acknowledged the contributions of senior negotiators from both sides and credited Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Egypt for their support during the talks.
The prime minister paid special tribute to Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir, calling his efforts instrumental in facilitating the breakthrough.
The agreement is intended to bring an end to the conflict that escalated earlier this year and disrupted trade through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Under the terms of the MoU, Washington has also committed to easing oil sanctions on Iran, while further economic and reconstruction measures are expected to follow once a final nuclear agreement is reached.
Officials from both countries described the accord as a foundation for future cooperation, with hopes that it will promote lasting peace, stability and economic prosperity across the region.
