Iran-US Peace Agreement Collapses, Pakistan’s Mediation Under Question... Could War Erupt Again?

Washington: The agreement signed between America and Iran in June has ended after the completion of the stipulated time limit of 60 days. This deadline ended on Monday, but the two countries could not reach a permanent peace agreement. On the contrary, differences between the two have deepened on many important issues. In particular, no concrete solution has emerged regarding Iran's nuclear programme and the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

What changed after the 60 day deadline ended?

The Memorandum of Understanding signed between the US and Iran in June aimed to stop military action and negotiate further towards a permanent agreement. A time limit of 60 days was fixed for this. But till the deadline was reached, neither party could agree on any comprehensive agreement.

Now uncertainty has increased between the two countries regarding the future strategy. Despite the efforts of mediating countries, differences remain regarding the nuclear programme, sanctions and Hormuz.

What is the biggest dispute between America and Iran?

The most important dispute between the two countries is regarding Iran's nuclear programme and the Strait of Hormuz. America wants an agreement related to strict restrictions and monitoring of Iran's nuclear programme. At the same time, Iran is insisting on American pressure and other conditions including lifting of the blockade in its demands.

The situation regarding the Strait of Hormuz also remains very sensitive. Due to the movement of oil being affected through this important sea route, it is also affecting the global energy market.

Can war erupt again between the two countries?

After the deadline, the fear of increasing military tension has deepened again. Iran has warned of adopting a more aggressive stance if talks fail. At the same time, US President Donald Trump has also not shown any clear commitment to take the agreement forward.

In such a situation, if the diplomatic route is closed, there is a possibility that the military conflict between the two countries will intensify again.

Why is Pakistan trying to negotiate?

Pakistan is also trying to play the role of mediator in taking forward the talks between America and Iran. Islamabad says it will continue efforts to bring both sides to the negotiating table. However, so far these efforts have not paved the way for any major agreement.

Why did the world's concern increase regarding Hormuz?

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital sea route for global energy supplies. Due to tension between America and Iran, the movement of ships passing through here has been greatly affected. According to reports, there has been a major decline in maritime traffic as compared to the normal situation.

If the crisis continues on this path for a long time, pressure on crude oil supply, fuel prices and the global economy may increase.

Now what can happen next?

At present, the biggest question is whether America and Iran start talks again or take the tension towards military path. Efforts of mediating countries are continuing, but there remains a big difference in the positions of the two sides on issues like the nuclear programme and Hormuz.

Therefore, diplomatic initiatives and next steps of both countries will be very important in the coming days.