US–Iran Near Deal on Gulf War Ceasefire Terms

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The United States and Iran are moving closer to a tentative agreement aimed at ending the conflict in the Gulf, according to a Pakistani source involved in mediation efforts. The proposed deal centres on a brief memorandum that could pave the way for a broader settlement and a de-escalation of hostilities in one of the world’s most strategically vital regions.

The source indicated that discussions have made significant progress in recent days, with both sides narrowing differences on key issues. “We are very close to finalising it,” the mediator said, suggesting that a breakthrough could come within days if remaining concerns are addressed.

The draft agreement is structured as a concise, 14-point memorandum of understanding. It is being negotiated through a combination of direct and indirect channels, involving senior representatives from both countries alongside intermediaries. If finalised, the document would formally declare an end to ongoing military confrontations and initiate a 30-day negotiation period to work out a comprehensive and lasting agreement.

Both sides are likely to move in parallel to bring the temperature down. Under the understanding being discussed, Iran would pause some of its more sensitive nuclear work for a limited period. In return, the United States would look at easing certain economic sanctions and help unlock Iranian assets that have been frozen abroad. Curbs on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy flows, would also be relaxed step by step rather than all at once.

The plan also builds in an exit option. If the talks break down, either side can pull back from its commitments. That safeguard speaks to the deep mistrust that still shapes relations between Washington and Tehran, with both trying to protect themselves against the risk that the other may not fully follow through.

The diplomatic push follows a recent pause in a U.S. naval initiative designed to escort commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. The operation had limited success in restoring shipping traffic and instead coincided with a rise in maritime incidents, including attacks on commercial vessels and heightened tensions across neighbouring areas.

Recent days have seen continued disruptions in the waterway. A European shipping operator reported that one of its vessels was struck while transiting the strait, with crew members sustaining injuries.