Momentum Grows for Iran Peace Deal

Talks to end the Iran war gained traction as Pakistan, a key mediator, indicated an agreement is near. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that a deal could be finalized within 24 hours. Although U.S. President Donald Trump echoed optimism on social media, Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei suggested more time might be needed, though not ruling out a breakthrough in the coming days.

The anticipated agreement is expected to be signed electronically, while discussions in the upcoming Group of Seven summit in Japan may address demining the Strait of Hormuz. This critical waterway has been crucial since Iran shut down oil shipments during the war, responding to a U.S. blockade of Iranian ports. A ceasefire has been in place since early April, with G7 members Britain and France expressing interest in aiding demining efforts once the conflict eases.

Trump was expected to meet with leaders from Egypt, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates on the G7 meeting sidelines to discuss efforts to conclude the conflict. Sharif communicated to his Qatari counterpart that the peace deal’s signing was imminent, with details pending announcement. Iran has expressed skepticism due to previous negotiations with the U.S. and Israel that led to renewed hostilities.

Baghaei emphasized that the memorandum under discussion excludes the nuclear issue, which has been a longstanding source of tension involving Iran, the U.S., and international powers. In response to future peace, Trump claimed a commitment to address the enriched uranium in Iran, suggesting potential intervention for downblending and destruction.

Despite recent exchanges of fire that risked breaking the ceasefire, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated the negotiations’ progress, echoed by Trump on social media. Trump highlighted significant movement in talks, amidst threats to Iran’s oil industry.

In a separate development, funeral plans for former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have been set for early July. He will be laid to rest at the Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad, a central site for Shiite Muslims. Khamenei, who reshaped Iran after succeeding Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in 1989, expanded the influence of the Revolutionary Guard, now a focal point in the conflict with Israel and the U.S.