Pakistan Mediates Historic US-Iran Peace Deal as PM Sharif Signs MoU in Islamabad
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif signed the Islamabad MoU on Thursday as mediator, following virtual signing by President Trump and President Pezeshkian. The 14-point agreement extends the ceasefire for 60 days and restores maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif signed the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (Islamabad MoU) in his capacity as mediator on Thursday, according to a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office. The agreement was signed by U.S. President Donald J. Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, representing a major diplomatic initiative aimed at reducing tensions and promoting dialogue. A clip released by the PM Office today showed Sharif physically signing the document in Islamabad, while the two leaders had previously completed a virtual digital signing on Wednesday, June 17.
The 14-point agreement extends the ceasefire announced in April for an additional 60 days, including provisions relating to Lebanon, allowing both sides more time to negotiate a permanent settlement. The memorandum also provides for the full resumption of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz without charges and includes the lifting of the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports. The agreement, which comes into force with immediate effect, follows months of diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region.
Islamabad residents expressed pride in Pakistan's mediation role. Sardar Abid, a local resident, said the entire nation congratulates Prime Minister Sharif and the military leadership for their role in the peace deal. "The whole Pakistani nation is happy that Pakistan played a role in this peace agreement," Abid said, adding that young people across Islamabad have shown renewed enthusiasm over Pakistan's major contribution to the diplomatic process.
Another resident, Umar Khattab, echoed similar sentiments, saying Pakistan's role in bringing the United States and Iran to the negotiating table has been a source of national pride. "We are very happy that Pakistan played such a significant role," Khattab said, praising the country's diplomatic efforts. The signing marks a significant milestone in Pakistan's foreign policy engagement, positioning the country as a key mediator in regional conflicts.