The United States and Iran have formally put into effect the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, a historic deal brokered through Pakistan’s mediation and seen as a major diplomatic breakthrough after months of intensive negotiations and repeated setbacks. The deal was finalized with electronic signatures from the leaders of the United States and Iran, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif signing as mediator. The virtual signing replaced an official ceremony planned at the Burgenstock tourist complex near Zurich, which was expected to be attended by high-level representatives from the three countries. Reporting for Express 24/7 from Zurich, lead presenter Fahad Husain said preparations for the high-profile event had been completed and advance teams from Pakistan, the United States and Iran had already arrived in Switzerland for the ceremony which was expected to bring together US Vice President JD Vance, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. However, the leaders ultimately opted to sign the memorandum electronically, thereby rendering the planned event unnecessary. Husain stressed that despite the cancellation of the ceremony, the most important goal had already been achieved.
"The agreement was signed, entered into force and established a framework for future negotiations between Washington and Tehran," he said. He noted that Pakistan’s mediating role was formally recognized in the document, reflecting Islamabad’s contribution in bringing both sides to the negotiating table. The deal marks the culmination of a diplomatic process that lasted more than three months and often seemed on the verge of failure. According to Husain, many observers believed these efforts would fail, but Pakistan continued to pursue dialogue despite growing challenges and pressure from several sides. He said diplomats and foreign officials in Switzerland openly acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts, describing the results as the result of sustained diplomacy, perseverance and strategic engagement.
