The United States and Iran are reportedly on the verge of a peace agreement that could end their long-standing nuclear standoff, according to a Pakistani source involved in the mediation efforts and an Axios report. The potential deal would require both sides to lift restrictions around the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil shipments.
Key Terms of the Agreement
Under the proposed terms, Iran would commit to a moratorium on nuclear enrichment, a key demand from the US and its allies. In return, the United States would lift sanctions and release billions of dollars in frozen Iranian funds. This exchange aims to de-escalate tensions that have simmered for years, particularly since the US withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal.
Trump's Role and 'Project Freedom'
Earlier, President Donald Trump announced a pause in his plan to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz, a mission dubbed 'Project Freedom'. Trump cited 'great progress' towards a deal, adding that the decision to pause was based on requests from Pakistan and recent military successes. However, the US naval blockade of Iranian ports will remain in place for now, signaling continued pressure on Tehran.
The breakthrough comes after months of backchannel diplomacy, with Pakistan playing a mediating role. If finalized, the agreement could reshape Middle Eastern geopolitics and stabilize global oil markets, which have been volatile due to the standoff.
