US-Iran Peace Deal Could Take Months; Gulf States and Europe Urge Ceasefire Extension
Some leaders from Gulf Arab and European nations believe a peace agreement between the United States and Iran could take approximately six months, advocating for an extended ceasefire. They call for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to restore energy shipments, warning of a potential global food crisis if not resolved by next month. Gulf nations insist any peace deal must prohibit Iran's uranium enrichment and long-range ballistic missiles, though most oppose renewed conflict and prefer diplomatic solutions. The current ceasefire expires next week, with Washington and Tehran considering a two-week extension, but a formal agreement remains uncertain.
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- 📰 Published: April 17, 2026 at 12:26
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(CNA Dubai/London, 16th) Bloomberg News reports that officials familiar with the matter indicate some leaders from Gulf Arab and European nations believe a peace agreement between the United States and Iran could take approximately six months to reach. Consequently, they are advocating for the warring parties to extend their ceasefire to cover this negotiation period.
According to these officials, the leaders are calling for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to restore energy shipments. They have privately warned that a global food crisis could emerge if navigation through this critical waterway is not restored by next month.
Officials added that energy prices could climb further if the conflict persists.
Gulf nations maintain the view that Iran still intends to develop nuclear weapons—a stance that remains unchanged following joint U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran.
Therefore, these countries believe any peace agreement should prohibit Iran from enriching uranium or possessing long-range ballistic missiles. However, most Gulf leaders oppose a return to hostilities and hope the U.S. will resolve the issues with Iran through diplomatic channels.
Spokespeople for the governments of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain did not immediately respond to Bloomberg's requests for comment.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) cited an April 8 statement, emphasizing the necessity of "unconditionally reopening the Strait of Hormuz."
The UAE statement pointed out the need for a "comprehensive and sustainable strategy" to address various Iranian threats, including its nuclear capabilities, ballistic missiles, drones, military forces, and affiliated proxy organizations and terrorist groups.
Rob Macaire, a former British Ambassador to Iran and current board member of the London-based think tank Chatham House (The Royal Institute of International Affairs), stated: "A U.S.-Iran agreement will not emerge in the short term... the key is not just whether negotiations succeed, but whether a renewed escalation into actual military conflict can be avoided for the foreseeable future. This is feasible, but there may be voices within Iran eager to resume missile attacks; the overall situation is like a high-stakes standoff."
Bloomberg noted that the ceasefire agreement between the U.S. and Iran expires next week. Washington and Tehran are currently considering a two-week extension to buy more time for negotiations.
However, there is still no guarantee that the two sides will extend the ceasefire or reach a formal peace agreement. (Compiled by Hsu Jui-cheng) 20260417
According to these officials, the leaders are calling for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to restore energy shipments. They have privately warned that a global food crisis could emerge if navigation through this critical waterway is not restored by next month.
Officials added that energy prices could climb further if the conflict persists.
Gulf nations maintain the view that Iran still intends to develop nuclear weapons—a stance that remains unchanged following joint U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran.
Therefore, these countries believe any peace agreement should prohibit Iran from enriching uranium or possessing long-range ballistic missiles. However, most Gulf leaders oppose a return to hostilities and hope the U.S. will resolve the issues with Iran through diplomatic channels.
Spokespeople for the governments of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain did not immediately respond to Bloomberg's requests for comment.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) cited an April 8 statement, emphasizing the necessity of "unconditionally reopening the Strait of Hormuz."
The UAE statement pointed out the need for a "comprehensive and sustainable strategy" to address various Iranian threats, including its nuclear capabilities, ballistic missiles, drones, military forces, and affiliated proxy organizations and terrorist groups.
Rob Macaire, a former British Ambassador to Iran and current board member of the London-based think tank Chatham House (The Royal Institute of International Affairs), stated: "A U.S.-Iran agreement will not emerge in the short term... the key is not just whether negotiations succeed, but whether a renewed escalation into actual military conflict can be avoided for the foreseeable future. This is feasible, but there may be voices within Iran eager to resume missile attacks; the overall situation is like a high-stakes standoff."
Bloomberg noted that the ceasefire agreement between the U.S. and Iran expires next week. Washington and Tehran are currently considering a two-week extension to buy more time for negotiations.
However, there is still no guarantee that the two sides will extend the ceasefire or reach a formal peace agreement. (Compiled by Hsu Jui-cheng) 20260417
FAQ
How long is the US-Iran peace agreement expected to take?
Officials familiar with the matter believe a peace agreement between the US and Iran could take approximately six months.
What are the potential consequences if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened soon?
If the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened by next month, a global food crisis could emerge.