US and Iran ‘near peace deal’ to end nuclear standoff and lift sanctions

WorldPolitics
6 May 2026 • 6:36 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

US and Iran ‘near peace deal’ to end nuclear standoff and lift sanctions

  • The U.S. and Iran are reportedly nearing a peace agreement regarding the conflict in the Middle East, according to a Pakistani source involved in the efforts and an Axios report.
  • A potential deal would require both sides to lift restrictions around the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Iran would commit to a moratorium on nuclear enrichment, while the U.S. would lift sanctions and release billions in frozen Iranian funds.
  • Earlier, President Donald Trump announced a pause in his plan to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz, citing “great progress” towards a deal.
  • Trump said that the decision to pause 'Project Freedom' was based on requests from Pakistan and military success, though the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports will remain.