Global Powers Welcome Historic US-Iran “Islamabad MoU”: Ceasefire Extended, Strait of Hormuz to Reopen as Diplomatic Gamble Begins
In a dramatic breakthrough brokered by Pakistan, Presidents Trump and Pezeshkian sign an interim agreement, halting a devastating four-month war and setting a 60-day clock for final negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program.
World leaders have cautiously welcomed a landmark interim agreement between the United States and Iran, signed electronically on June 18, 2026, which extends the existing ceasefire for 60 days and paves the way for the reopening of the strategic Strait of Hormuz .
The “Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding” (MoU), mediated by Pakistan and endorsed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, marks a significant diplomatic breakthrough in a conflict that began on February 28 with US and Israeli strikes against Iran. The agreement commits both sides to an “immediate and permanent cessation of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon,” and sets the stage for direct negotiations in Switzerland starting June 19 .
A Fractured Peace: World Reactions Pour In
The international community’s response has been a mix of relief, cautious optimism, and stark warnings. The agreement, signed by US President Donald Trump at the Palace of Versailles and by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, has been hailed as a critical step toward de-escalation .
- Iran: In a significant display of internal politics, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei gave his approval despite having a “different view,” emphasizing the commitment of President Pezeshkian and the Supreme National Security Council to protect the rights of the Iranian nation . However, Iranian officials struck a defiant tone, stating they would monitor US compliance “without any leniency” and reiterating that their missile program is “off the table” in upcoming negotiations. They also firmly stated they would not ship their stockpile of highly enriched uranium abroad, a key point of contention .
- United States: President Trump described the signing as “not easy,” while his administration framed it as a victory. However, the deal immediately drew backlash from fellow Republicans who argue it does little to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions and wastes taxpayer money. Conversely, some Republicans, like Senator Roger Marshall, praised it as a “winning deal” .
- Israel: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu offered a carefully worded response, emphasizing the importance of the US-Israel alliance. While not directly endorsing the deal, he noted that Washington had stood “shoulder to shoulder” with Israel during the war and stressed the need for “calm judgement” and the preservation of their vital relationship .
- Hezbollah: In a starkly different tone, Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem hailed the agreement as a “big victory.” He thanked Iran for linking the Lebanon front to the deal, which he claims forced Israel to stop its aggression, and firmly stated that the group’s disarmament would not be up for negotiation .
- China & Russia: Both nations welcomed the agreement, calling on all parties to remain rational and pragmatic and to strictly adhere to the understandings reached to avoid a renewal of violence .
The Road Ahead: A 60-Day Diplomatic Sprint
The MoU establishes a 60-day negotiating window to address the most contentious issues that sparked the war: Iran’s nuclear program and US sanctions . International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi welcomed the deal, stating, “Now the technical work starts,” as the agency prepares to formulate concrete steps for handling Tehran’s nuclear program .
A significant immediate consequence of the agreement is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for global energy supplies. President Trump ordered the immediate removal of the US naval blockade, declaring, “Ships of the World, start your engines! Let the oil flow!” . The move is expected to ease global energy prices .
The next phase of negotiations will take place in Burgenstock, Switzerland, and will include officials from the US and Iran, along with mediators from Pakistan and Qatar . While the “Islamabad MoU” represents a monumental step away from the brink of a wider regional war, its ultimate success hinges on the ability of both sides to navigate the deep-seated mistrust and conflicting demands laid bare by their domestic and international reactions .
