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Pakistan PM Announces US-Iran MOU to Reopen Strait of Hormuz and Lift Naval Blockade
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that the US and Iran have electronically signed a memorandum of understanding to end the Middle East war, under which Iran will instantly reopen the Strait of Hormuz and the US will immediately lift its naval blockade. A ceremony in Switzerland on Friday will commemorate the accord and begin technical talks, with Pakistan and Qatar playing key roles.
Quick Facts
Who
Shehbaz Sharif
What
Electronic signing of a memorandum of understanding
When
Thursday (June 18, 2026)
Where
Strait of Hormuz
- Electronic signing of a memorandum of understanding
- Reopening of the Strait of Hormuz
- Lifting of the naval blockade on Iranian ports
- Ceremony in Switzerland to commemorate the accord
- Technical-level talks to commence
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Thursday that the United States and Iran have electronically signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to end the Middle East war, paving the way for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the lifting of the American naval blockade on Iranian ports.
In a post on X, Sharif described the “Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding” as a historic accord that will take effect immediately. As a first step, Iran will “instantly” reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz, while the United States will “immediately” lift its naval blockade, he said.
Sharif confirmed that Pakistan, with support from Qatar, will host a ceremony in Switzerland on Friday to commemorate the agreement and begin technical-level talks. He expressed gratitude to US President Donald J. Trump for his commitment to diplomacy and praised Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian for their wisdom and statesmanship.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the constructive roles played by Qatar, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt in facilitating the accord. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, has been a focal point of tensions during the conflict, and its reopening is expected to stabilize energy markets and regional trade.
Why This Matters
This agreement directly impacts global energy security and shipping lanes: the Strait of Hormuz handles about 20% of the world's oil shipments. Its immediate reopening reduces supply disruption risks and may stabilize oil prices. For businesses relying on Middle East crude or transiting the Gulf, this signals a de-escalation of naval tensions and potentially lower insurance and freight costs. Investors should monitor follow-through and technical talks.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 18, 2026
WirePakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif announces US-Iran MOU to reopen Strait of Hormuz and lift naval blockade.
Jun 19, 2026
WireCeremony in Switzerland to commemorate the MOU and begin technical-level talks.