WASHINGTON — US President Donald Trump has praised Pakistan for its vital role in helping broker the recent peace agreement with Iran.
In an exclusive interview with Axios, President Trump shared his appreciation for Pakistan’s top leadership. He noted that Islamabad’s deep understanding of the region was a turning point in successfully handling the backchannel peace talks.
I am honoured to announce that the historic ‘Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding’ has been electronically signed today between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Memorandum has been signed by honourable Presidents of both the countries and also…
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) June 18, 2026
Key Diplomatic Disclosures
- Trump credited Pakistan with vital diplomatic leverage, stating they “really helped us” with the Iran deal.
- Trump praised PM Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, noting they work exceptionally well together.
- Trump claimed his personal intervention stopped a catastrophic nuclear war between India and Pakistan in May 2025.
- Trump asserted executive power has “no limits,” citing the absolute success of the US naval blockade.
How the Backchannel Deal Succeeded
The diplomatic breakthrough led to the electronic signing of the “Islamabad MoU” by all sides. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif formally announced the framework alongside matching signatures from President Trump in France and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran.
The peace deal establishes an immediate ceasefire, reopens the crucial Strait of Hormuz shipping corridor, and ends the US naval blockade on Iranian ports.
Key Milestones of the Peace Accord
• Backchannel Mediator: Pakistan’s civil and military leadership.
• Global Support: Backed by strategic regional partners.
• Immediate Action: Reopening of the Strait of Hormuz shipping lanes.
• Next Phase: 60 days of detailed stabilization talks in Switzerland.
President Trump revealed that when the war threatened global energy supplies, Pakistan’s leadership stepped in directly. Due to his strong relationship with Islamabad’s top officials, Trump agreed to a Pakistani request to halt active US strikes. This quiet diplomacy ultimately opened the door to the final peace framework.
