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In a significant diplomatic development, the United States and Iran have signed a peace deal that takes immediate effect, according to Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who helped mediate the agreement. The 14-point memorandum of understanding extends an April ceasefire by another 60 days and includes provisions for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and for the US to lift its naval blockade, as reported by The Guardian. The deal was signed by US President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Iran's parliament speaker, with a formal ceremony planned in Switzerland on Friday.

Coverage Comparison

The Guardian's coverage has focused on the deal's immediate impact and regional reactions. Reports highlight that south-east Asian nations, heavily reliant on Middle Eastern oil, have welcomed the agreement, with Thailand's foreign ministry expressing hope for "lasting peace and stability." The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is seen as a critical step toward stabilizing global energy markets. The Guardian also reports on ongoing regional incidents, including Israeli operations in Lebanon and blasts heard near the strait, providing a broader context of continued volatility.

Key Claims

  • Immediate Effect and Ceasefire Extension: Pakistan's Prime Minister announced the deal takes "immediate effect" and extends the April ceasefire by 60 days, according to The Guardian.
  • Reopening of the Strait of Hormuz: Iran will instantly reopen the strait, and the US will lift its naval blockade, per Sharif's statement.
  • Nuclear Commitments: Iran has agreed to never have a nuclear weapon, a claim attributed to President Trump. Nuclear inspectors will return to Iran as part of the deal, according to Vice President Vance.
  • Potential $300bn Fund: A report, cited by a single outlet, suggests the US is considering a $300bn fund for Iran if the peace deal is upheld.
  • Regional Incidents: The Israeli Defense Forces intercepted Hezbollah fire on its forces in Lebanon, and blasts were heard in the strait of Hormuz area, as per separate reports. Lebanon's death toll has been updated to 3,798, and Netanyahu announced he will run in upcoming elections.

Perspectives

  • US and Iran: Both sides emphasize the deal's significance, with Trump touting the reopening of the strait and Vance highlighting nuclear inspections. Iran reaffirms its commitment not to build nuclear weapons, a vow it has made for decades.
  • Regional Actors: South-east Asian nations welcome the agreement for its potential to stabilize energy prices. Thailand's energy minister projects oil prices will return to normal if the situation remains stable.
  • Israel: Prime Minister Netanyahu has announced he will run in upcoming elections and stated that Israeli forces will remain in Lebanon's "buffer zone," indicating a continued military presence despite the ceasefire. Israeli far-right ministers have criticized the deal as "bad for Israel."
  • International Observers: The deal is seen as a landmark event, with Pakistan playing a mediating role. However, details remain unclear, and the ongoing regional incidents underscore the fragile nature of the peace.