THE Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed on June 17–18, 2026, by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, holds massive geopolitical, economic and strategic significance for Pakistan, which served as the primary mediator. Endorsed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the breakthrough halts the 2026 Iran–US war, lifts the US naval blockade and reopens the vital Strait of Hormuz.

This episode has not only elevated Pakistan’s global diplomatic standing but also enabled the country to stabilize energy markets and defuse regional conflicts that could threaten its security and economy. The 60-day negotiation window established by the MoU provides a cooling-off period, preserving regional strategic stability and protecting Pakistan’s western flank from external military spillover.

Pakistan has demonstrated a rare ability to bridge the gap between........

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