US President Donald Trump has announced that the United States and Iran have reached a preliminary framework agreement aimed at ending months of conflict, reopening the Strait of Hormuz and paving the way for broader peace negotiations.
The breakthrough, revealed by Trump on Sunday through his Truth Social platform, was later confirmed by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, whose government played a key role in mediating discussions between the two sides. The memorandum of understanding is expected to be formally signed in Switzerland on Friday.
Under the proposed framework, military operations involving both sides are set to cease immediately, including conflict-linked activities in Lebanon. Iranian authorities confirmed that military actions across all fronts would end permanently beginning Monday night, marking a significant step toward de-escalation in the region.
The announcement sent shockwaves through global markets. Oil prices fell sharply after news broke that the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes, would reopen. Brent crude and US oil futures both recorded notable declines as investors welcomed the prospect of restored supply flows.
Despite the positive market reaction, major questions remain unresolved. The future of Iran’s nuclear programme will be discussed during a proposed 60-day ceasefire period, with negotiators expected to address sanctions relief, uranium enrichment activities and international monitoring measures.
The conflict, which erupted earlier this year, has claimed thousands of lives, primarily in Iran and Lebanon. Rising fuel prices linked to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have also placed increasing pressure on governments worldwide, highlighting the conflict’s impact beyond the Middle East.
The agreement has drawn mixed reactions in Washington. Supporters view it as a diplomatic breakthrough that could stabilise global energy markets and reduce tensions. Critics, however, argue that the framework may grant Iran significant concessions before securing firm commitments regarding its nuclear ambitions.
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham welcomed the progress but stressed that any future nuclear agreement involving Iran must undergo congressional review. Other political figures have voiced concerns about whether the framework provides sufficient guarantees to prevent Iran from advancing its nuclear capabilities.
Israel, which was not directly involved in the negotiations, has yet to issue an official response. Tensions between Washington and Tel Aviv reportedly surfaced during discussions, particularly over military operations in Lebanon and broader regional security concerns.
As preparations begin for the formal signing ceremony, world leaders are cautiously optimistic. Several European nations have indicated they may consider easing sanctions on Iran if concrete and verifiable steps are taken to limit its nuclear activities, setting the stage for what could become one of the most significant diplomatic developments in the region in years.
