Shehbaz Says US-Iran Deal Signed as Hormuz Set to Reopen

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Thursday that the United States and Iran had electronically signed an Islamabad-brokered memorandum aimed at ending a major regional confrontation, with Tehran expected to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and Washington set to lift its naval blockade.

The announcement places Pakistan at the centre of a high-stakes diplomatic development after weeks of regional tension that had disrupted one of the world’s most important energy routes. The prime minister said the arrangement had been endorsed at the highest level by both governments and carried Pakistan’s role as mediator.

According to the reported terms, the agreement would take effect immediately, with Iran moving to restore passage through the Strait of Hormuz and the United States easing blockade measures against Iranian ports. The waterway is vital for global oil and gas supplies, and any prolonged closure can rapidly affect fuel markets, shipping costs and inflation-sensitive economies such as Pakistan.

Shehbaz Sharif publicly congratulated the US leadership and praised the diplomatic efforts that led to the breakthrough. He also acknowledged Iran’s senior leadership and negotiating team, while naming regional partners including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Egypt for their engagement in the peace process.

The prime minister also highlighted the role of Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir, describing his involvement as important to the breakthrough. The statement signals that Islamabad wants the agreement viewed not only as a regional settlement but also as a diplomatic achievement for Pakistan’s civilian and security leadership.

The deal follows a conflict that began in late February, when the United States and Israel launched military action and Iran responded with missile and drone attacks across the region. The confrontation intensified concerns over energy security after the Strait of Hormuz was effectively closed and maritime movement near Iranian ports was restricted.

Under the broader framework, Washington is also expected to waive oil sanctions linked to Iran’s economy, while future talks on Tehran’s nuclear programme are expected to involve international monitoring. A possible reconstruction fund backed by regional countries has also been mentioned as part of the wider settlement process.

For Pakistan, the development is significant because stability in the Gulf directly affects fuel imports, remittances, shipping costs and domestic inflation. A reopening of Hormuz could ease pressure on energy markets and provide Islamabad with diplomatic capital at a time when the country is navigating budget pressures and external financing challenges.

The next stage will depend on how quickly both sides implement the immediate commitments and whether technical-level talks can convert the memorandum into a durable settlement. Pakistan will likely seek to maintain its mediating role as regional governments watch for practical steps on sanctions, maritime access and nuclear negotiations.