Government/ president welcome news of Iran/ United States peace deal

President António José Seguro and the Portuguese government have welcomed a breakthrough agreement between the United States and Iran, expressing hope that it will bring an immediate end to the conflict and restore stability across the Middle East.

In separate statements issued today, Lisbon praised the diplomatic efforts that led to the breakthrough and reiterated Portugal’s commitment to dialogue, international law and negotiated solutions to international disputes.

The Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it hopes the agreement can become “the starting point for lasting peace for the region and the world”.

In messages over social networks, the ministry also thanked the countries involved in mediation efforts, highlighting “the tireless mediation of Pakistan” and the significant contributions made by Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

President António José Seguro echoed the government’s position, saying he hopes the agreement will lead to an immediate end to the conflict, including its wider repercussions in neighbouring Lebanon.

In a statement published on the Presidency’s official website, Seguro said he expects implementation of the agreement to bring “the peace, security and stability essential for the development of the entire region” and to allow the resumption of free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

“Portugal will always stand on the side of diplomatic solutions and respect for international law and thanks all parties involved in the mediation efforts,” said Portugal’s head of state.

Trump Announces US-Iran Deal

The agreement was announced on Sunday by US President Donald Trump, who said Washington and Tehran had reached a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz after months of disruption to one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes.

The closure of the waterway triggered major upset in global energy markets, as approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply passes through the narrow shipping corridor linking the Persian Gulf to international waters (and as a result of the US/ Israeli attacks on Iran, this came to an abrupt halt, with roughly a billion barrels of oil ‘stopped’ in its tracks, along with other necessities, such as raw materials for other sectors, including agriculture).

According to Trump, the United States will lift its maritime blockade imposed on vessels entering and leaving Iranian ports in exchange for Tehran reopening the strait.

The deal is expected to bring an end to the conflict that began on February 28 with the US/ Israeli military operations.

Nuclear Talks Continue Ahead of Swiss Signing

While negotiators have reached a political agreement, several technical issues relating to Iran’s nuclear programme remain unresolved.

Delegations from both sides are expected to hold preparatory meetings throughout the week ahead of the formal signing ceremony, scheduled to take place in Switzerland on June 19 (Friday).

Sources: LUSA/ X.com

Natasha Donn

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.