ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has announced that a major geopolitical breakthrough is on the brink, saying a peace deal between the US and Iran could be finalized in just 24 hours, even as tensions in the Gulf region continue to rise.

In a post on X, the prime minister said Pakistan is actively preparing for the electronic signature of the agreement soon after the conclusion of negotiations, with technical-level talks expected to begin next week. He called the emerging diplomacy an “important step” toward regional stability and welcomed what he called encouraging progress in the talks.

He thanked both Washington and Tehran for their continued engagement during the high-level talks and expressed hope that the emerging agreement could reshape the prospects for long-term peace in the Middle East. He also highlighted the new diplomatic momentum following talks between Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis, noting that both sides acknowledged positive developments and agreed to remain in close coordination.

We are closer than ever to a peace agreement. With the finalization likely in the next 24 hours, Pakistan is gearing up for the immediate electronic signing of the peace agreement, which will be followed by technical-level talks next week.

We would like to thank the United States…

— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) June 13, 2026

However, despite growing diplomatic optimism, the situation on the ground remains volatile. A U.S. official indicated that Washington expected a preliminary agreement could be signed soon, suggesting that negotiations could enter their final and most critical phase after months of uncertainty.

Adding a dramatic twist, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on state television that Iran had emerged “stronger” from its confrontation with the United States. Acknowledging that adjustments to the draft agreement are still possible, he framed the talks as proof of Tehran’s strategic advantages.

Tensions have since escalated around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy corridors. US forces reported intercepting and destroying several Iranian one-way attack drones heading for the waterway, confirming that maritime traffic is safe. The strait, which carries an important part of global oil and gas shipments, has become the focus of increasing military and diplomatic pressure.

Adding to the alarm, Iranian media reported explosions near Sirk port and Qeshm Island, raising fears of further escalation. Local reports also claimed that Iranian forces reportedly fired warning shots at ships attempting to cross without permission, raising concerns in an already fragile and highly sensitive region.

As diplomacy races against escalating military activity, the world is now watching closely to see if this last-minute electronic peace deal will hold, or if the Strait of Hormuz could once again become a flashpoint for a wider conflict.

Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif says that efforts are underway to resolve the Iran-US standoff.