Trump administration signals Iran deal signing likely in coming days
TLE DESK: The Trump administration indicated Friday that a memorandum of understanding with Iran could be signed in the next few days, though officials stopped short of full certainty amid internal complexities within the Iranian regime. A senior U.S. official, speaking anonymously, raised the confidence level to 80-85% from 75% earlier in the day, describing the deal as including reopening the Strait of Hormuz, steps to dismantle Iran’s nuclear program, an end to Iran’s funding of regional violence, and a robust inspection regime.
The official emphasized that significant economic relief — including loosened sanctions and unfrozen assets — would only follow full Iranian compliance. The two sides have not yet finalized the signing location. Israel and other regional allies are expected to support the agreement, with the U.S. stressing that all parties retain their right to self-defense while participating in the broader peace process.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who has played a key mediating role, stated earlier Friday that a “final, agreed upon text” of the deal between the U.S. and Iran has been reached. Pakistan is now working closely with both sides to finalize next steps. Sharif wrote on X that “Peace has never been this close as it is now.”
President Donald Trump expressed strong optimism the previous day, stating in the Oval Office that the U.S. had “just made a great settlement of the war with Iran,” pending finalization of documents. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi echoed the positive sentiment, noting that a memorandum of understanding “has never been closer.”
Both sides pushed back against leaked details of the deal. Iran’s Mehr News Agency reported purported provisions including U.S. commitments to lift oil sanctions, end its naval blockade, and release frozen funds. Trump responded angrily on Truth Social, saying the public reporting had “NOTHING to do with the terms that were agreed to, in writing.”
The developments come against the backdrop of ongoing efforts to end hostilities, with Pakistan’s mediation proving instrumental throughout the process.
Sources: Primary coverage from CNBC (June 12, 2026 updates), along with statements from Pakistani officials, Trump’s remarks, and supplementary reports from Reuters, Al Jazeera, and other international outlets.
