The breakthrough was announced by U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday, who declared that a deal with Iran had been completed and signaled the reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a key artery for global oil shipments.
«“The deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Ships of the world, start your engines. Let the oil flow!”»
The announcement marks the most significant diplomatic development since the outbreak of the US-Israel war on Iran, which also drew Lebanon into the conflict and heightened fears of a wider regional confrontation.
Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said broader negotiations covering sanctions relief and long-term arrangements would continue during a proposed 60-day ceasefire period. According to Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, a formal agreement is expected to be signed in Switzerland on Friday.
Regional Powers Welcome Diplomatic Breakthrough
Several Middle Eastern countries praised the agreement as a crucial step toward restoring stability.
Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs commended both Washington and Tehran for pursuing negotiations and peaceful dialogue. Minister of State Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi expressed hope that the agreement would encourage broader regional efforts to resolve outstanding disputes through constructive engagement.
Pakistan also welcomed the development, with Prime Minister Sharif congratulating both nations for choosing diplomacy over continued conflict. He thanked Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye for their roles in helping facilitate the breakthrough.
Saudi Arabia described the accord as an important move toward ending military operations and launching detailed negotiations aimed at achieving a permanent settlement. The United Arab Emirates similarly emphasized the importance of diplomacy, calling for full compliance with the agreement and an immediate halt to hostilities.
Kuwait praised the memorandum of understanding and acknowledged the diplomatic efforts of Pakistan and Qatar in helping bridge differences between the two sides.
Turkish President welcomed the agreement, calling it an important development for peace and stability in the region. He reaffirmed Ankara's support for diplomatic solutions grounded in international law.
Mixed Response in Israel
While the agreement was welcomed internationally, reactions in Israel were more divided.
Israeli Defence Minister stated that Israel would maintain its military presence in areas of Lebanon currently under its control. He warned that Israel would respond with “great force” to any future Iranian attacks linked to Israeli operations in Lebanon.
Meanwhile, Israeli Finance Minister sharply criticized the agreement, describing it as harmful to both Israel and the broader international community. Smotrich argued that recent military operations had significantly weakened Iran and insisted efforts to prevent Tehran from obtaining nuclear weapons must continue.
International Community Urges Full Implementation
Global leaders and international organizations broadly welcomed the accord while stressing the importance of implementation.
United Nations Secretary-General described the deal as a “critical step” toward a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
European Commission President emphasized the need for swift and complete implementation, particularly the restoration of freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, which she said was essential for regional stability and the global economy.
British Prime Minister called the agreement a “hugely important” step toward ending the war. He reiterated that any lasting peace must include robust and verifiable commitments regarding Iran’s nuclear program and offered British support for potential maritime mine-clearance operations.
French President urged the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and highlighted the importance of restoring unrestricted maritime trade. He also voiced support for efforts to strengthen Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
German Chancellor said the agreement could contribute to a stronger global economy and a more secure Middle East if implemented effectively.
Canadian Prime Minister echoed those sentiments, stressing that a durable ceasefire must guarantee safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz while addressing concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
Bangladesh's Foreign Ministry also welcomed the development, noting that Dhaka had consistently called for de-escalation and diplomatic engagement throughout the conflict.
Markets and Region Await Next Steps
The tentative agreement has raised hopes that one of the most dangerous conflicts in recent Middle Eastern history may be approaching a resolution. However, significant challenges remain, including finalizing the terms of a permanent settlement, implementing a ceasefire, and addressing longstanding disputes over sanctions, regional security, and Iran's nuclear program.
With a formal signing ceremony expected later this week in Switzerland, diplomats and world leaders are closely watching whether the framework agreement can evolve into a lasting peace that reshapes the security landscape of the Middle East and restores stability to global energy markets.