WASHINGTON: The United States and Iran are expected to announce the finalization of a draft peace agreement by Sunday afternoon, raising hopes for an end to weeks of escalating tensions and conflict in the Middle East.
In this regard, the draft proposal was agreed upon early Saturday after intensive diplomatic engagements involving senior officials from both countries. The proposed agreement has now been sent to the leadership of both nations for final approval.
In this sense, the key negotiators included Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, US Vice President J.D. Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff, and presidential adviser Jared Kushner.
The agreement could turn the current fragile six-week ceasefire into a permanent peace arrangement. However, major issues still remain unresolved, including Iran’s nuclear program, sanctions relief, and the reopening of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
Meanwhile, the Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 20 percent of the world’s oil supply passes, has remained largely closed since fighting began on February 28.
The disruption has significantly affected global energy markets and international shipping routes.
So far, Pakistani Field Marshal Asim Munir reportedly played a central mediating role in narrowing differences between Washington and Tehran. The delegation from Qatar also arrived in Tehran as part of last-minute diplomatic efforts to secure the deal.
The signs of progress emerged as Vice President Vance made an unscheduled return from Ohio, while President Donald Trump convened his national security team and prepared for consultations with Middle Eastern leaders.
In addition, the U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also acknowledged “some progress” in the talks but reiterated Washington’s position that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons and that free passage through the Strait of Hormuz must be guaranteed.
