However, he warned that the United States retained “the ultimate alternative” if diplomatic efforts failed, without elaborating further.
Pakistan Signals Imminent Breakthrough
Adding to speculation, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif suggested that the agreement could be concluded as early as Sunday. In a post on X, Sharif said the two sides had agreed on a framework for peace and that Islamabad was preparing for an electronic signing of the deal, followed by technical-level discussions next week.
“We are closer to a peace deal than ever before. With finalisation likely expected in the next 24 hours, Pakistan is preparing for the electronic signing of the peace deal immediately after, followed by technical-level talks next week,” Sharif said.
No Confirmation On Signing Date
Despite Pakistan’s optimism, neither the United States nor Iran has officially confirmed when the agreement will be signed. Tehran has cautioned against expectations of an immediate breakthrough.
Iranian officials indicated that a peace framework could be signed in the coming days but rejected suggestions that it would happen within the next 24 hours.
Araghchi said discussions were progressing, though changes to the proposed agreement were still possible. He added that the tentative deal reflected Iran’s strengthened position following the conflict.
‘Wait And See’: Tehran
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei ruled out a signing ceremony on Sunday and urged caution over predictions about the timing.
“We will have to wait and see about the exact date of the signing of the memorandum of understanding, although it will not be tomorrow,” Baghaei said.
“The possibility of this happening in the coming days cannot be ruled out. However, due to the hesitation of the other side, we must be cautious in making any comments about this process,” he added.
