US, Iran move closer to tentative deal to ease tensions
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US and Iran move closer to a tentative deal after Washington pauses Hormuz operations.
Signs of a breakthrough emerged in the US-Iran conflict after both sides reportedly moved closer to agreeing on a one-page memorandum of understanding aimed at ending the confrontation.
The development came after US President Donald Trump took the unexpected step of freezing “Operation Freedom” in the Strait of Hormuz, while maintaining the naval blockade on Iran.
According to Axios, the proposed framework includes a temporary halt to uranium enrichment, the gradual lifting of sanctions, the release of frozen Iranian assets, and easing restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz as part of negotiations expected to continue for 30 days.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed hope that the suspension of the US operation in the strategic waterway would pave the way for a long-term agreement. He thanked Trump for what he described as a “gracious response” to requests from Pakistan and allied countries, particularly Saudi Arabia and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to support regional peace and stability.
Despite the diplomatic progress, Trump warned Tehran that it could face “stronger and harsher” strikes if the deal collapses.
On the Iranian side, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated Tehran’s insistence on a “fair and comprehensive agreement,” while Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned that the country’s “enemy” was seeking to undermine national unity and force Iran into surrender.
The signs of easing tensions also affected global energy markets, with Brent crude falling below $100 a barrel, while investor appetite for risk improved across international stock markets.
