World reacts to US-Iran deal to extend ceasefire, reopen Strait of Hormuz | US-Israel war on Iran News
US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signed the “Islamabad MOU” on Wednesday, extending a ceasefire in the US-Iran war for 60 days. Mediated by Pakistan, the agreement mandates the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a reaffirmed commitment from Iran to forgo the development of nuclear weapons.
What are the terms of the Islamabad MOU?
The memorandum of understanding establishes a 60-day window to halt fighting on all fronts and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, according to US officials. The deal aims to create a diplomatic path to negotiate US sanctions on Tehran, the release of frozen Iranian assets, and the specifics of Iran’s nuclear program.
The conflict began Feb. 28 after the US and Israel launched strikes against Iran. While a temporary ceasefire took hold on April 8, this new agreement extends that pause to allow for deeper negotiations. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif endorsed the deal on X, calling it a “historic” step toward a diplomatic resolution.
How will nuclear and missile programs be handled?
Iran’s nuclear program remains a primary negotiation point, but its missile program is excluded. Esmaeil Baghaei, the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, told media that Tehran’s missile program is “off the table” for these talks.
Baghaei also confirmed that Iran will not ship its stockpile of highly enriched uranium abroad. Meanwhile, IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi told Reuters that the agency will now begin “technical work” to formulate concrete steps for handling the nuclear program.
Why is the Strait of Hormuz a focal point?
Reopening the Strait is intended to stabilize global energy markets and ensure safe maritime navigation. French President Emmanuel Macron stated on X that the agreement allows the reopening of the waterway, which should enable a decrease in energy prices.
Iran is not simply reopening the Strait; it is changing how it’s managed. According to Baghaei, Iran will finalize a new regime with Oman to “charge fees for services” within the Strait. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi echoed the need for “free and safe navigation” to be restored promptly.
What is the reaction from the US and Israel?
The deal has split the US Republican party. Some Republicans argue the MOU wastes billions in taxpayer funds and fails to sufficiently restrict Tehran. However, Senator Roger Marshall praised the agreement on X, calling it a “winning deal” and claiming it surpasses the agreement negotiated under former President Barack Obama.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not comment on the specific terms but emphasized the “vital relationship” with the US. In a statement issued Thursday, Netanyahu said Washington stood “shoulder to shoulder” with Israel during the war, though he warned that “the struggle is not yet over.”
How does this impact Hezbollah and Lebanon?
Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem described the MOU as a “big victory” in a televised address. He stated that Lebanon’s negotiations with Israel must focus on “mutual security” and explicitly rejected any proposals regarding the disarmament of Hezbollah, calling such demands an “Israeli recipe.”
President Trump expressed a broader expectation for peace. In a social media post Thursday, he stated the US expects a “complete ceasefire on all fronts,” specifically naming Lebanon, Hezbollah, and Israel.
What are the global perspectives on the deal?
International powers view the MOU as a blueprint for stability. Russian President Vladimir Putin, speaking at the Russia-ASEAN summit in Kazan, said the deal could serve as a model for future peace agreements and benefit global energy markets.
China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian welcomed the signing and urged both nations to remain “rational and pragmatic.” Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the MOU as a “solid foundation” for the next phase of talks, praising the mediation efforts of Pakistan.
Comparison: The Islamabad MOU vs. Previous Frameworks
| Feature | Islamabad MOU | Prior US-Iran Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Mediator | Pakistan | Multilateral (EU/UN) |
| Missile Program | Off the table (per Iran) | Point of contention |
| Strait of Hormuz | Reopening with fee regime | Security flashpoint |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the ceasefire last?
The ceasefire is extended for 60 days to allow for further negotiations.
Will Iran stop its missile program?
No. Iranian spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated the missile program is not part of the negotiations.
Who mediated the agreement?
Pakistan mediated the process, leading to the deal’s name, the “Islamabad MOU.”
Where are the next talks happening?
The US, Iran, and mediators are scheduled to meet in Burgenstock, Switzerland, on Friday.
What do you think about the exclusion of the missile program from the talks? Does this make the deal more or less sustainable? Let us know in the comments or subscribe to our newsletter for updates on the Burgenstock negotiations.