The US and Iran are close to agreeing on a memorandum to end the war
The United States and Iran are close to agreeing on a one-page memorandum of understanding that is expected to provide for an end to the war and set out a framework for further negotiations on the nuclear programme. This was reported by two US officials and other sources familiar with the negotiations, according to Axios.
According to them, Washington is awaiting Tehran’s response on key provisions within the next 48 hours. There is no final agreement as yet, but the parties are closer to a deal than at any point since the start of the war.
Key provisions under consideration include a moratorium on uranium enrichment by Iran, the gradual lifting of US sanctions and the unfreezing of Iranian assets. There is also talk of lifting restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Some of the memorandum’s provisions will depend on the conclusion of a final agreement. Should the talks break down, a resumption of hostilities or prolonged uncertainty cannot be ruled out.
The White House believes that the Iranian leadership lacks a unified position, which could complicate the reaching of agreements. Some US officials have expressed doubts about the conclusion of even a preliminary agreement.
Talks are being held between President Donald Trump’s representatives, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, and Iranian officials, with the participation of mediators. The draft document contains 14 points and provides for an end to the war and the start of a 30-day period of negotiations on a detailed agreement.
During this period, the parties may gradually lift restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The talks may take place in Islamabad or Geneva.
Should the negotiations fail, the US may reinstate the blockade or resume military action.
The duration of the moratorium on uranium enrichment is being discussed separately. According to sources, the US is proposing 20 years, Iran is insisting on five, and a compromise could be between 12 and 15 years. After this period ends, Iran will be able to enrich uranium to a level of 3.67 per cent.
The document also includes a commitment by Iran not to develop nuclear weapons or carry out related research. The possibility of abandoning the use of underground nuclear facilities and introducing expanded inspections, including unannounced inspections, is being discussed.
For its part, the US may agree to the gradual lifting of sanctions and the release of Iran’s frozen assets abroad.
According to sources, the option of removing highly enriched uranium from Iran is also under discussion.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that reaching an agreement would take time due to the complexity and technical nature of the negotiations. He emphasised the need for clear diplomatic decisions regarding the terms and concessions of the parties.
At the same time, Rubio noted that he was not confident in the Iranian leadership’s readiness to conclude an agreement.
