Progress Toward Ending the Iran War Gains Momentum

Efforts to finalize a deal to end the Iran war appear to be gaining traction. Key mediator Pakistan announced that an agreement is closer than ever before. U.S. President Donald Trump shared via social media that the deal is expected to be signed soon, and the Strait of Hormuz should reopen quickly.

However, Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei noted that while an agreement might not happen immediately, the chances of it occurring in the coming days remain strong. Both parties are expected to sign the agreement electronically when finalized.

Trump is set to discuss the demining of the Strait of Hormuz during the Group of Seven summit starting Monday. Iran’s state media announced that funeral ceremonies for former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in the war’s initial attacks, are scheduled for July.

Meetings and Discussions

A senior U.S. official revealed Trump plans to meet with leaders from Egypt, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates during the G7 summit. These discussions will focus on efforts to conclude the war. G7 members Britain and France have shown interest in assisting with demining efforts once the conflict pauses. The extent of mine placement in the strait, controlled by Iran since the war began, remains unclear.

A ceasefire has been active since April 7. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed optimism about the imminent finalization of the peace deal, with electronic signing expected soon. Discussions have mainly centered on ending the war, excluding the nuclear issue, which remains a source of international tension.

Negotiations and Conflict

Despite previous setbacks in talks with the U.S., Iran shows cautious optimism about the current discussions. President Trump indicated that once calm prevails, efforts will focus on addressing Iran’s nuclear activities, including the destruction of enriched uranium.

Earlier in the week, tensions rose when Iran exchanged fire with the U.S. and Israel, threatening the current ceasefire. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on social media that a resolution seems closer than ever. Trump, who has frequently claimed progress in recent negotiations, shared Araghchi’s message.

Funeral Arrangements for Khamenei

The funeral for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei will occur between July 4 and 9, during Muharram, a period of mourning in the Shiite Muslim calendar. Khamenei is succeeded by his son Mojtaba, who has been less visible since the war’s outset. Services will be held in Tehran, move to Qom, and conclude in Mashhad at the Imam Reza Shrine, a central place of veneration among Shiite followers.

Khamenei took over after the death of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in 1989, expanding the Shiite clerical class and strengthening the Revolutionary Guard. These actions solidified his long rule, making the Guard a central military and economic power within Iran.

Reports contributed by Magdy in Cairo and Madhani in Washington. Associated Press writer Michelle L. Price from Washington also contributed.