3
US President Donald Trump announced that a memorandum of understanding with Iran is nearing finalization, awaiting only formal approval. He disclosed this information on Saturday.
Trump stated that the agreement, if reached, would include the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. However, he cautioned that it is not yet final and depends on the approval of negotiators from the US, Iran, and various other countries.
He further revealed that he became optimistic about this progress following phone conversations with leaders of several Middle Eastern countries. Officials from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Pakistan, Jordan, Egypt, Turkey, and Bahrain participated in those discussions. Subsequently, he also held separate talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Trump wrote on his social media platform ‘Truth Social’ that the final details of the agreement are still under discussion and could be announced soon.
Meanwhile, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that his country would continue to facilitate discussions between both parties and hopes that future US-Iran meetings could take place in Pakistan.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan welcomed the progress in discussions, highlighting the possibility of free passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
Egypt’s presidency also urged all parties to utilize diplomatic opportunities to reach a swift understanding.
According to analysts, if the agreement is implemented, tensions in the Middle East could somewhat decrease. However, Iran’s nuclear program, regional influence, and the US military presence remain significant obstacles.