Pakistan to Host Historic US-Iran Peace Deal Signing Ceremony in Geneva]

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan will host the signing ceremony for a historic US-Iran peace agreement in Geneva on June 19, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced Monday, crediting the nation’s military and political leadership for mediating the regional accord.

Sharif confirmed that the United States and Iran have reached a permanent ceasefire agreement encompassing all fronts, including Lebanon, following intensive negotiations. US President Donald Trump also verified that Washington and Tehran have signed the deal, authorizing the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and lifting the naval blockade of Iran.

“The official ceremony of this historic agreement will be held on Friday, June 19, in Geneva,” Sharif told the parliament. “Pakistan will host this ceremony with divine grace.”

The Pakistani premier expressed gratitude to Trump, Iran’s supreme leader, and the negotiating teams from both nations. He also acknowledged Qatar, Saudi Arabia, China, and Türkiye for their roles in de-escalating regional tensions.

“My highly respected brother, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and my brother President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan played vital roles,” Sharif said.

Sharif paid tribute to Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for his pivotal role in brokering the peace deal, noting his persistence during critical moments when conflict seemed imminent.

IRAN’S POSITION
Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi confirmed the agreement on state television but stated implementation would await Friday’s signing ceremony following 14 hours of talks in Tehran mediated by Qatar.

BACKGROUND
The conflict began in February when the US and Israel launched coordinated strikes against Iran, claiming they targeted nuclear weapons development. Iran has maintained its nuclear program serves peaceful purposes.

Throughout the conflict, Iran blocked the Strait of Hormuz—a critical route for 20% of global oil and gas shipments—driving up worldwide energy prices.

Pakistan served as principal mediator, hosting initial direct talks in April in Islamabad. The country maintained communication channels between Washington and Tehran, relaying messages and proposals throughout negotiations.

KEY DISPUTED ISSUES REMAIN
Outstanding matters include the Strait of Hormuz’s management—with Iran insisting on control and requiring vessel permission through its armed forces—and the fate of Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpile, left buried by US strikes during a previous brief conflict.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi stated that enriched uranium must be diluted domestically, while Trump has indicated the US would remove and destroy the material.

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