US, Iran electronically sign Islamabad MoU to end conflict

ISLAMABAD: The United States and Iran have electronically signed the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, an interim agreement aimed at ending months of conflict and opening the way for a broader peace settlement.

The agreement was signed by representatives of both countries, with Pakistan serving as mediator and witness.

Under the MoU, both sides have agreed to halt military operations and enter a 60-day negotiation period to finalise a comprehensive agreement.

The deal also includes provisions related to maritime security and the reopening of commercial shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz.

The agreement outlines a phased easing of restrictions, including the eventual removal of the US naval blockade on Iranian ports. Iran, in return, has agreed to allow commercial vessels to pass through the strategic waterway.

The signing follows months of diplomacy facilitated by Pakistan and comes after earlier rounds of negotiations in Islamabad.

The next phase of talks is expected to focus on a long-term settlement and unresolved issues between Washington and Tehran.

The development is being closely watched by global markets because of its potential impact on oil prices, energy supplies and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.