Strait of Hormuz to Remain Toll-Free for 60 Days, Says Pakistani Foreign Ministry

In a recent announcement, the Pakistani Foreign Ministry revealed that there will be no duties imposed on passage through the Strait of Hormuz for the next 60 days. This decision comes as a result of ongoing negotiations between Iran and the US, with Pakistan and Qatar acting as mediators. According to sources, Iran has agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route, once certain conditions are met. These conditions include a ceasefire in Lebanon, the unfreezing of Iranian assets, the lifting of the US naval blockade, and the removal of sanctions on Iranian oil. Technical talks between Iran and the US, facilitated by Pakistan and Qatar, commenced in Burgenstein, Switzerland, on Sunday. The discussions follow a memorandum signed by Iran and the US on June 18, which outlines the terms for ending the military conflict that began on February 28. As part of the agreement, the US is expected to lift its naval blockade, while Iran will restore shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. Furthermore, Iran has pledged not to pursue nuclear weapons, and the issue of its nuclear program will be addressed in a separate agreement. The parties involved have 60 days to negotiate the details, with the ultimate goal of lifting anti-Iranian sanctions. The Pakistani Foreign Minister's statement provides a sense of relief for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, as they will not be subject to tolls for the next two months. As the negotiations progress, the international community will be closely watching the developments in the region.