US-Iran deal reached after tough diplomacy, final pact still uncertain

Pakistan, with support from Qatar, played a key mediating role in helping the United States and Iran reach a fragile

Pakistan, with support from Qatar, played a key mediating role in helping the United States and Iran reach a fragile interim agreement after weeks of intense and often deadlocked negotiations, according to diplomatic sources.

Sources said Pakistani officials managed late-night discussions and multiple draft revisions as both sides struggled to overcome deep mistrust and sharp disagreements over key issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme and tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

The breakthrough reportedly came after Qatar stepped in during a critical phase when talks had stalled, offering diplomatic and financial assurances that helped bridge remaining gaps. Pakistani leadership, including senior civil and military officials, remained engaged throughout the process.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif later informed parliament that the agreement followed extensive negotiations marked by repeated setbacks and last-minute crises, including regional tensions that nearly derailed the process.

Officials said the two sides now have 60 days to work toward a comprehensive final settlement, but warned that major challenges remain due to conflicting interpretations of the deal and continuing geopolitical instability.

Analysts note that despite the interim breakthrough, sustaining momentum toward a permanent agreement will require sustained mediation and careful diplomatic balancing from all involved parties.