ISLAMABAD (special crosspondent) – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Thursday that the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran have electronically signed the historic ‘Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding,’ a landmark agreement facilitated by Pakistan’s diplomatic mediation.

In a statement posted on his X social media account, the prime minister confirmed that the presidents of both nations have signed the memorandum, which he also endorsed as the mediator. The announcement follows his disclosure three days earlier that a deal had been successfully reached. “I am honoured to announce that the historic ‘Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding’ has been electronically signed today between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran,” he stated, emphasizing that the high-level endorsement demonstrates a mutual commitment to a diplomatic resolution.

Effective immediately, the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) stipulates that as a first step, Iran will reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and the United States will concurrently lift its naval blockade. This development is seen as a significant step toward de-escalating what had been escalating regional tensions.

Pakistan’s mediation was pivotal in achieving this breakthrough, having facilitated intensive diplomatic engagement between the two parties. A formal signing ceremony for the memorandum is scheduled to be hosted in Switzerland on June 19.

Key Figures and International Contributions

Prime Minister Sharif extended his heartfelt congratulations to US President Donald J. Trump, praising his “steadfast commitment to diplomacy and preference for peaceful resolution.” He also commended the tireless efforts of the US negotiating team, which included J.D. Vance, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner. The successful outcome follows earlier high-level engagements, including a key meeting between PM Shehbaz Sharif and US Vice President JD Vance during the ‘Islamabad Talks’.

The prime minister also expressed profound respect and appreciation for the Iranian leadership, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian, for their “wisdom, foresight and statesmanship in embracing the cause of peace.” He acknowledged the crucial contributions of the Iranian negotiating team—Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Abbas Araghchi, and Eskandar Momeni—whose perseverance was instrumental. These efforts were part of a broader dialogue framework, which also saw the Prime Minister hold a meeting with the Iranian delegation.

Furthermore, Mr. Sharif lauded the leadership of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Egypt for their indispensable roles and invaluable contributions to the diplomatic process.

In a special mention, the prime minister highlighted the role of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, stating his “tireless efforts, selfless dedication and instrumental role were critical in facilitating this breakthrough and advancing the cause of peace and regional stability.”

Concluding his statement, Prime Minister Sharif expressed hope that the MoU would serve as an “enduring foundation for greater understanding, mutual respect and shared prosperity for the complete region.”