Reuters: US, Iran may reach agreement to end war soon

A Pakistani source involved in mediating between the United States and Iran said on April 17 that backchannel diplomacy has made significant progress, raising the possibility of a near-term agreement to end the ongoing war.

"Both sides are agreeing in principle. And technical bits come later," the source told Reuters on condition of anonymity.

According to the source, an upcoming meeting between Washington and Tehran could result in the signing of a memorandum of understanding, to be followed by a comprehensive deal within 60 days.

A diplomatic source said Pakistan’s army chief, Asim Munir, has been holding talks in Tehran since April 15 and has achieved a breakthrough on several “sticky issues.”

These include key disagreements over Iran’s nuclear program. According to people familiar with the proposals, the United States has suggested a 20-year suspension of Iranian nuclear activity, while Tehran has proposed a shorter halt of three to five years.

Iran has also demanded the lifting of international sanctions, while Washington has pressed for the removal of highly enriched uranium from the country. Two Iranian sources indicated there were signs of compromise, with Tehran considering shipping part of its stockpile abroad.

Separately, U.S. President Donald Trump said he was confident that an agreement to end the war could be reached soon. He also stated that Hezbollah should support a 10-day U.S.-backed truce agreed between Lebanon and Israel.

By Sabina Mammadli