Trump Announces US-Iran Deal Signing Set for Sunday Despite Iranian Reservations
US President Donald Trump has stated that a deal intended to end hostilities between the United States and Iran is scheduled to be signed on Sunday. This announcement comes amid Iranian officials expressing uncertainty about the exact timing of the agreement, with Tehran indicating the signing will not occur “tomorrow.”
Trump’s declaration was made via a post on his social media platform, where he also emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz—a critical maritime passage for global oil and gas shipments—would be “open to all” immediately following the deal’s signing. The Strait has been a focal point of tension during the conflict.
Why this matters
The potential agreement between the US and Iran aims to halt ongoing military confrontations that have destabilized the Gulf region. Reopening the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping is significant for global energy markets, as the route is vital for the transport of oil and liquefied natural gas. Additionally, the deal could ease tensions that have involved attacks and counterattacks between the two nations and their allies.
Details and Reactions from Iran and Pakistan
Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei expressed caution regarding the timeline, stating that the exact date for signing the memorandum of understanding remains undecided, but it would not be on Sunday. This contrasts with Trump’s assertion of a Sunday signing.
Pakistan, which has played a key role as a mediator in the negotiations, indicated optimism about the deal’s imminent finalization. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the agreement was expected within 24 hours and that preparations were underway for an electronic signing. He described the situation as “closer to a peace deal than ever before.”
Scope of the Agreement
According to Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, the deal includes provisions for ending the conflict involving Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and lifting the US blockade on Iranian ports. However, discussions regarding Iran’s nuclear program are expected to commence at a later stage.
Trump referenced Iran’s enriched uranium stockpiles, stating that “at the appropriate time, when all is calm, we will go in and get the Nuclear Dust,” which would subsequently be destroyed. This relates to longstanding Western concerns about Iran’s nuclear ambitions, which Tehran denies, asserting its nuclear activities are for peaceful purposes such as electricity generation and research.
Context of the Conflict
The conflict escalated following US and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February, which led to Iranian retaliatory attacks on Israel and US-allied states in the Gulf region. Iran’s actions included effectively closing the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting a vital global shipping lane.
Although a ceasefire was agreed upon in April, intermittent exchanges of fire have continued, including recent rounds of tit-for-tat strikes. The proposed deal seeks to establish a more durable peace and stability in the region.
Next Steps
If the deal is signed as Trump anticipates, technical-level talks are expected to follow soon after. US officials have indicated that economic benefits for Iran under the agreement will be contingent upon Tehran fulfilling its commitments.
Trump also warned that if the deal does not proceed smoothly, the US retains “the ultimate alternative, hopefully never to be used again,” suggesting a readiness to consider other measures should negotiations fail.
Recommended reading
For more context, see related Peack News coverage and explainers linked below.
