US and Iran report progress in talks to end war

2026-05-23 20:53:00, Kosova & Bota CNA

Progress has been made in negotiations to end nearly three months of war between Iran and the United States, brokered by Pakistan. Iranian and Pakistani officials said the sides are working to finalize a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that could pave the way for a broader peace agreement.

According to sources involved in the negotiations, the proposed framework includes three phases: the formal end of the war, the resolution of the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz, and the launch of a 30-day period of talks on a long-term agreement.

According to Reuters , Pakistan's military described the process as "encouraging", while other sources said the agreement under discussion is "sufficiently comprehensive" to end the conflict.

On the other hand, US President Donald Trump stated that he will consult with his advisors and may make a decision on whether or not to continue attacks on Iran.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stressed that there is still work to be done, but acknowledged that some progress has been made. He reiterated the US position that Iran should not have nuclear weapons and that navigation in the Strait of Hormuz should remain open.

For its part, Iran has consistently denied that it aims for nuclear weapons, saying its program is for civilian purposes and seeking the lifting of economic sanctions.

According to diplomatic sources, Trump is expected to hold phone calls with leaders of several Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Egypt, Turkey and Pakistan.

Meanwhile, Pakistan-brokered negotiations are aimed at easing tensions that have partially paralyzed maritime trade in the strategic Strait of Hormuz region, affecting global energy markets. Iranian officials, including Esmail Baghaei and Abbas Aragchi, said the priority remains stopping new military threats and lifting sanctions.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said Iran would defend its “legitimate rights” both through diplomacy and on the ground, warning of consequences if war resumes. Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir has also been involved in the mediation, having held meetings in Tehran with top Iranian officials.

According to reports, the militant group Hezbollah also remains involved in regional tensions, especially in Lebanon, where armed clashes continue. The parties are expected to continue talks in the coming days, while a preliminary agreement could pave the way for broader negotiations on stability in the region. /CNA