As the United States and Iran prepare to sign a deal intended to end their conflict on Sunday, protests have erupted across Iran opposing the agreement. Nevertheless, US President Donald Trump has announced that the signing will take place on Sunday, signaling an end to hostilities between the two nations. After Iran expressed uncertainty about the timeline for signing, Trump set a definitive date. Pakistan, a key mediator in the negotiations, also expressed optimism about finalizing the agreement within 24 hours and revealed they are ready for an “electronic signature.”
Before Trump’s comments, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismail Bagheri cautiously addressed the timing, stating on Saturday, “We are waiting for a definite date to sign the agreement, but it will not be tomorrow (Sunday).” In a post on social media, Trump wrote on Saturday, “The signing is scheduled for tomorrow and after that, the Strait of Hormuz will be open to all.”
What is driving the protests in Iran against the deal? According to BBC Persian, some opponents of the agreement have taken to the streets, chanting slogans against Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. The protest held in Tehran’s Ibn Sina Square mainly included demonstrators linked to Iran’s hardline and extremist group, the “Persistence Front.” Additionally, dozens gathered on Saturday evening in front of the Foreign Ministry building to protest statements made by Abbas Araghchi regarding the potential deal with America.
President Trump has warned of taking tougher measures if the current deal preparations fail to progress. He stated, “If things don’t proceed quickly, smoothly, and easily, Washington will have a last resort—hopefully, one that will never have to be used again.” Earlier on Saturday, Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif remarked, “We are very close to a peace agreement like never before.”
