Key facts
- The US and Iran are nearing an agreement to end their war, with Pakistan mediating.
- A final text for the deal has been reached, with an electronic signing expected within 24 hours.
- Terms reportedly include nuclear material removal and sanctions relief, with nuclear program details to follow within 60 days.
- Switzerland has offered to host the signing ceremony.
- Israel has expressed significant concern over the potential agreement.
- Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister met with Russian and Chinese ambassadors to discuss the developments.
The United States and Iran are reportedly on the verge of signing an agreement to end their protracted conflict, with Pakistan acting as a key mediator. Officials suggest a final text has been reached, and an electronic signing could occur within the next 24 hours, although Iran's Foreign Ministry has indicated it might take a few more days.
Key terms of the potential deal are said to include the removal of nuclear material from Iran and the easing of sanctions, with specific details regarding Iran's nuclear program to be finalized within 60 days. Switzerland has offered to host the signing ceremony. However, Israel has voiced significant concerns, fearing the agreement will not meet its strategic objectives.
Amidst these diplomatic efforts, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, Kazem Gharibabadi, met with the ambassadors of China and Russia to discuss the latest developments, emphasizing the continuation of their strategic partnership. Meanwhile, reports indicate a tanker was struck by an unknown projectile east of Oman, and the Israeli military reported strikes against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, with the Lebanese army confirming a soldier was wounded.
Pakistan's Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, has expressed confidence in the deal's imminent finalization, highlighting the urgency to secure a commitment for an initial 30 to 60-day period, open the Strait of Hormuz, and release Iranian assets. Senior Iranian figures, including Ayatollah Mohsen Araki, have cautioned negotiators to adhere strictly to the supreme leader's directives and red lines, emphasizing the need to demonstrate power during talks.