US-Iran Peace Deal Nears as Tehran and Pakistan Signal Breakthrough

Hopes for a historic U.S.-Iran peace agreement strengthened on Friday after encouraging statements from Iranian officials and key mediator Pakistan suggested that a final deal could be close.

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Washington and Tehran had “never been closer” to completion. He urged media outlets to avoid speculation until negotiations are finalized, adding that full details would be released publicly once an agreement is reached.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also expressed optimism, stating that peace efforts are at their most advanced stage yet. According to Sharif, negotiators have already agreed on the final text of a proposed peace deal, raising expectations that a formal signing could take place soon.

Despite the positive developments, tensions briefly resurfaced after U.S. President Donald Trump criticized reports from Iran’s Mehr News Agency regarding the contents of the agreement. Trump argued that leaked details, including claims about releasing frozen Iranian assets and limiting talks to nuclear and economic issues, did not reflect the terms agreed upon by both sides.

Trump accused Iranian officials of misrepresenting negotiations and called for a more constructive approach. Nevertheless, reports indicate that discussions continue to move forward. Reuters reported that Washington and Tehran could sign the MoU as early as Sunday, potentially during a ceremony in Geneva involving U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammed Baqer Qalibaf.

According to sources familiar with the talks, negotiators are working to finalize language covering key issues, including regional security concerns. Iran is reportedly seeking guarantees related to the conflict involving Israel and Hezbollah, while broader discussions include reopening the Strait of Hormuz and easing U.S. oil sanctions within 30 days of implementation.

The prospect of a U.S.-Iran peace deal has already impacted global energy markets. Brent crude oil prices fell more than 3%, extending losses after investors reacted positively to signs of de-escalation. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global energy supplies, has remained heavily disrupted during the conflict, making any agreement significant for oil markets and international trade.

Trump recently stated that the war with Iran was effectively over and expressed confidence that a final agreement could be signed within days, potentially marking a major diplomatic breakthrough in the Middle East.