Iran and the United States sign framework agreement to end Middle East conflict

On June 18, 2026, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the signing of a framework agreement between Iran and the United States aimed at ending the war in the Middle East. Under the terms of this 'Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding,' the Strait of Hormuz is to be reopened fully without delay. Concurrently, the United States has agreed to immediately lift the naval blockade of Iranian ports. Prime Minister Sharif confirmed that a formal ceremony is scheduled for Friday in Switzerland to mark this development. Following the ceremony, the parties are expected to initiate technical discussions to finalize the implementation of the agreement. The agreement is described as being effective immediately according to the official statement released on June 18, 2026.