Iran war deal closer than ever, Pakistan says
The U.S. plans to discuss demining the Strait of Hormuz at next week's G7 summit as peace talks accelerate.
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Momentum for ending the Iran war grew Saturday as Pakistan, the key mediator, said an agreement was closer than "ever before." U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to discuss demining efforts during the Group of Seven summit starting Monday.
A senior U.S. official said Trump plans to meet on the sidelines with leaders from Egypt, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates to discuss winding down the conflict. Britain and France, both G7 members, have expressed interest in helping clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz once a ceasefire holds. Both countries have military vessels positioned for potential participation.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said a deal would be finalized within 24 hours, with electronic signing to follow and technical talks next week. Iran's foreign ministry signaled optimism but cautiously: "Although it will not happen tomorrow, the possibility that it could take place in the coming days cannot be ruled out," spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said. He added that "the likelihood of finalizing the memorandum of understanding in the coming days is high."
A tenuous ceasefire has been in place since April 7. The U.S. blockaded Iranian ports in response to Iran's effective control of the Strait of Hormuz, which has virtually shut down oil and natural gas shipments from the Persian Gulf.