US-Iran deal shifts to crucial next phase

Technical talks set to begin in Switzerland

The United States and Iran have formally brought into effect the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, a landmark agreement brokered through Pakistan's mediation that is being viewed as a major diplomatic breakthrough after months of intensive negotiations and repeated setbacks.

The agreement was finalised through electronic signatures by the leaderships of the United States and Iran, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif signing as the mediating party. The virtual signing replaced a formal ceremony that had been planned at the Burgenstock resort near Zurich, where senior representatives from all three countries were expected to attend.

Reporting for Express 24/7 from Zurich, senior anchorperson Fahad Husain said that 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 to feature US Vice President JD Vance, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

However, the leaders ultimately chose to sign the memorandum electronically, making the planned event unnecessary. Husain stressed that despite the cancellation of the ceremony, the most significant objective had already been achieved.

"The agreement has been signed, entered into force and established a framework for future negotiations between Washington and Tehran," he said. He noted that Pakistan's role as mediator has been formally acknowledged in the document, reflecting Islamabad's contribution to bringing both sides to the negotiating table.

The agreement marks the culmination of a diplomatic process that spanned more than three months and frequently appeared on the verge of collapse. According to Husain, many observers had opined that the effort would fail, but Pakistan continued to pursue dialogue despite mounting challenges and pressure from multiple sides.

He said foreign diplomats and officials in Switzerland have openly recognised Pakistan's efforts, describing the outcome as the result of sustained diplomacy, perseverance and strategic engagement.