Shehbaz Sharif: Iran’s Naval Blockade to Be Lifted
WANA (Jun 18) – Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced early Thursday that, following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran, the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened and the naval blockade of Iran lifted as an initial confidence-building measure.
In a post on his official X account, Sharif stated: “I am proud to announce that the historic ‘Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding’ was signed electronically today between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran. The memorandum has been signed by the presidents of both countries and endorsed by me in my capacity as mediator.”
He added that the agreement, signed at the highest level of both governments, reflects the commitment of both parties to resolving the dispute through diplomacy.
“The Islamabad Memorandum will enter into force immediately. As a first step, the Islamic Republic of Iran will promptly reopen the Strait of Hormuz, while the United States of America will immediately lift the naval blockade,” Sharif explained.
According to a statement released by the Pakistani prime minister, Pakistan, with the support of Qatar as co-mediator, will host an official ceremony in Switzerland on June 19, 2026, to commemorate the agreement and launch technical-level negotiations.
Sharif also expressed appreciation to U.S. President Donald Trump, saying: “I extend my sincere congratulations and heartfelt gratitude to President Donald Trump, whose steadfast commitment to diplomacy and preference for a peaceful resolution once again helped bring an end to a conflict that could have resulted in devastating consequences for the region and beyond.”
He further praised members of the U.S. negotiating team, including James David Vance, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner, for what he described as their valuable contributions to the achievement.
The Pakistani leader also thanked Iran’s leadership, stating: “I express my deep respect and appreciation to Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei, Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and President Masoud Pezeshkian for their wisdom, foresight, and statesmanship in embracing the cause of peace.”
Sharif also acknowledged the efforts of the Iranian negotiating team, including Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Abbas Araghchi, and Eskandar Momeni, saying their patience, perseverance, and commitment to constructive engagement played an important role in reaching the agreement.
Regarding other mediators, Sharif said he particularly appreciated the constructive efforts of Qatar’s leadership in helping advance the process. He also thanked the leadership of Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt for their important contributions.
The Pakistani prime minister additionally highlighted the role of Field Marshal Asim Munir, describing his tireless efforts, dedication, and effective involvement in facilitating the breakthrough and promoting regional peace and stability as crucial.
Sharif concluded by expressing hope that the memorandum would serve as a lasting foundation for greater understanding, mutual respect, and shared prosperity across the region.
Iran Publishes 14-Point Islamabad Agreement with the U.S.
WANA (Jun 18) – The media committee of the Iranian negotiating delegation has released the text of the “Islamabad Understanding” between Iran and the United States. According to the Iranian side, the 14-point document outlines a framework for ending the war, launching negotiations toward a final agreement, and establishing a series of mutual commitments in […]
