The United States and Iran have formally signed an electronic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at ending months of hostilities, marking the most significant diplomatic breakthrough between the two countries in years.
The agreement, which has now entered into force, establishes an immediate cessation of military operations between both sides and outlines a framework for negotiations on sanctions relief, maritime security and the release of frozen Iranian assets. A final peace agreement is expected to be negotiated within the coming weeks.
According to the text published by Iran’s semi-official Tasnim News Agency, the memorandum commits both Washington and Tehran, as well as their respective allies, to an immediate and permanent halt to military operations on all fronts, including Lebanon, while pledging to refrain from the threat or use of force against one another.
The document also sets out plans for Iran to restore unrestricted commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran says commercial vessels will begin transiting immediately, with full maritime operations expected within 30 days following demining and the removal of technical and military obstacles. Discussions with Oman and other Gulf states are also envisaged to determine the future management of the strategic waterway.
On sanctions, the United States commits to pursuing the phased removal of economic restrictions imposed on Iran, including unilateral US sanctions, while both countries agree to begin immediate negotiations on the implementation process. Before broader sanctions are lifted, Washington has also pledged to authorise exports of Iranian crude oil and petroleum products, alongside related banking, insurance and shipping services.
The memorandum further provides for the eventual release of Iran’s frozen and restricted financial assets, with both governments expected to negotiate the mechanisms governing their transfer and utilisation.
Supporters of the agreement have described it as a major diplomatic breakthrough capable of easing tensions across the Middle East and stabilising global energy markets. However, analysts caution that several of the memorandum’s provisions remain subject to future negotiations, and implementation will depend on both sides fulfilling their respective commitments.
The text circulating online has also prompted debate over its broader geopolitical implications. Some commentators argue that its provisions amount to a diplomatic victory for Iran because they include commitments on sanctions relief, oil exports and access to frozen assets. However, that characterisation remains an interpretation rather than an established conclusion, and the full implementation of the memorandum will depend on the outcome of the forthcoming negotiations.
