High-wire diplomacy delivered US-Iran deal but hardest stage lies ahead, sources say

AI Summary

Diplomatic efforts by Pakistan and Qatar led to a preliminary US-Iran deal, yet sources indicate that the most challenging phase of turning the agreement permanent remains ahead. The article highlights the complex negotiation process and the diplomatic hurdles still to be overcome.

By Saad Sayeed, Andrew Mills, Ariba Shahid and Olivia Le Poidevin ISLAMABAD, June 18 (Reuters) - Pakistani mediators spent weeks juggling late-night calls and competing drafts before a Qatari push helped secure this week's preliminary U.S.-Iran deal, but turning it into a permanent agreement will prove harder, sources said.