President Donald Trump announced on social media that a deal to end fighting between the United States and Iran is scheduled for signing on Sunday, a claim that Iran's foreign ministry later tempered by casting doubt on the exact timing. Trump stated on his Truth Social platform that immediately after the signing, the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route, would be open to all.

This announcement comes after a period of diplomatic engagement involving Pakistan and Qatar as mediators. The potential deal aims to de-escalate tensions between the two nations, which have been adversaries for decades, particularly concerning Iran's nuclear program and regional conflicts. The opening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital passage for oil transport, would have significant implications for global energy markets.

Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei expressed caution regarding the timeline, stating, "We will have to wait and see about the exact date of the signing of the memorandum of understanding, although it will not be tomorrow [Sunday]." Meanwhile, a delegation from Qatar, another key mediator, arrived in Tehran on Sunday, with reports indicating it was unclear if their visit would influence the timing of Iran's expected signature.

Should the deal be finalized, it signals a potential breakthrough in reducing regional conflict. Trump also alluded to addressing Iran's enriched uranium stockpiles, suggesting that "Nuclear Dust" would be retrieved and destroyed at an appropriate time. The US has long accused Iran of seeking to build nuclear weapons, while Tehran maintains its program is for peaceful purposes.

Earlier on Saturday, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had indicated optimism, stating, "we are closer to a peace deal than ever before." He added that Pakistan was preparing for the electronic signing of the deal within 24 hours, to be followed by technical talks the following week. These statements from Pakistan's leader align with the urgency implied by Trump's announcement.

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi had also confirmed on Friday that a deal with the US was close. He outlined that the agreement would envision an end to the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, with separate talks on Iran's nuclear program to commence later.

US officials have corroborated some aspects of the agreement, noting that economic benefits for Iran would be contingent upon Tehran fulfilling its obligations. This conditionality highlights the delicate balance of the proposed accord, where Iran's adherence to terms is crucial for its economic recovery.

Trump also issued a warning, suggesting that if the process "would not work out quickly, easily and smoothly," Washington possessed an "ultimate alternative," which he hoped would not be needed again. This statement implies that diplomatic channels are the preferred route, but that other options remain on the table should negotiations falter.