Exclusive: Iran, US to finalize framework understanding via Pakistan

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Al Mayadeen
24 May 2026 01:03
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Trusted sources say Tehran and Washington are finalizing a framework deal via Pakistani mediation to end the war and ease tensions.

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Workers walk past billboards near the Serena Hotel ahead of the second round of negotiations between Iran and the United States, in Islamabad, Pakistan, on April 20, 2026. (AP)

Tehran and Washington are in the final stages of drafting a framework agreement through Pakistani mediation aimed at ending the ongoing war and establishing de-escalation arrangements, sources told Al Mayadeen.

According to the sources, the proposed arrangement is not a final agreement but rather a memorandum of understanding designed to outline immediate political, military, and maritime steps following months of regional escalation.

The sources added that the memorandum does not include any clause related to Iran’s nuclear file, which is expected to be addressed in a separate track after the framework is signed.

Ending the US blockade, release of frozen assets

The understanding reportedly focuses on ending the war, implementing de-escalation measures, and facilitating maritime navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint affected by months of tension. Sources told Al Mayadeen that the memorandum includes the withdrawal of the US fleet from areas surrounding Iran and the end of the American naval blockade imposed during the war.

It also includes the release of half of Iran’s frozen assets, estimated at around $12 billion, alongside a 30-day period to reach a separate nuclear agreement after the signing of the framework.

Trump says deal with Iran “largely negotiated” in Truth Social post

US President Donald Trump announced that a deal with Iran has been “largely negotiated,” with only final details remaining before an official announcement.

In a statement on Truth Social from the Oval Office, Trump said he held talks with several regional leaders, including officials from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Pakistan, Turkiye, Egypt, Jordan, and Bahrain, regarding a memorandum of understanding related to “peace” and Iran.

He added that the agreement involves the United States, Iran, and multiple regional countries, with negotiations now in their final stage.

Trump also confirmed that he spoke separately with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, describing the conversation as having “gone very well.”

He further stated that one of the expected outcomes of the agreement would be the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz after months of US-Israeli escalation tensions and disruptions linked to the war on Iran.