Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday announced that a peace deal between the United States of America and Iran had been reached and the official signing ceremony would be held on June 19 in Switzerland. “Following intensive talks, we are pleased to announce that the Peace Deal between the United States of America and Islamic Republic of Iran has been REACHED. Both sides have declared the immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon.

The official signing ceremony will be on Friday, 19 June in Switzerland,” the prime minister wrote on his X timeline. He thanked the US and Iran for their commitment to finding a diplomatic solution to the conflict, besides appreciating the mediation effort and the leadership of State of Qatar, for support in reaching this agreement. The prime minister also thanked the "visionary" leadership of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Republic of Türkiye for their immense contributions in this regard. 

He said that with the agreement now in place, mediators would facilitate a series of meetings this week. These pre-implementation discussions will lay the foundation for the technical talks and the official signing ceremony, he added. Pakistan has played a proactive and constructive role in supporting mediation efforts and backchannel diplomacy to promote peace and de-escalation in the region. Pakistani leadership, including Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, remained actively engaged with all relevant parties, advocating for dialogue and a diplomatic resolution to the conflict. 

It is pertinent to mention that a ceasefire was also agreed upon and later extended on Pakistan’s request as part of the diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions. World leaders and the international community have appreciated Pakistan’s sincere efforts towards regional peace and stability. Several prominent figures have lauded Islamabad’s consistent and responsible contributions in fostering an environment conducive to such important diplomatic breakthroughs. 

US President Donald Trump, in a post on his social media platform Truth Social also announced that the deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran was now complete. "Congratulations to all! I hereby fully authorize the toll free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and, simultaneously herewith, authorize the immediate removal of the United States Naval blockade. Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow," he wrote. Trump said that the "Great Deal" would bring peace and security to the whole region. 

He said that many presidents had tried to make peace with Iran, and all have failed before him. "The Leaders of the Region have, for the first time, found a President who can help them achieve real Peace. With the opening of the Strait upon the signing of the Deal on Friday, for purposes of mine removal, oil will flow on both ends again for the Region, and the World," Trump added. 

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)