WASHINGTON D.C. — The United States and Iran have officially signed a historic memorandum of understanding (MOU), dubbed the 'Islamabad Memorandum', signaling an immediate and permanent cessation of military operations across all fronts, including Lebanon. This pivotal agreement, confirmed by President Trump, outlines 14 crucial points designed to usher in a new era of peace and economic cooperation, including the reopening of the vital Strait of Hormuz and a massive economic aid package for Iran.
Immediate End to Hostilities and Naval Blockade
The core of the US Iran peace pact is an immediate and permanent halt to all military actions by both nations and their allies. Both sides have committed to refraining from any future military action or threats of force, paving the way for a final agreement that will formally end the protracted conflict. Crucially, the United States will begin lifting its naval blockade of Iran immediately upon the MOU's signing, with a full cessation expected within 30 days. Similarly, US forces will be withdrawn from the vicinity of Iran within 30 days of the final agreement.
Reopening the Strait of Hormuz
A significant outcome of the agreement is the immediate resumption of commercial shipping through the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has pledged to facilitate the safe passage of commercial vessels free of charge for 60 days. Full restoration of traffic is anticipated within 30 days, contingent on de-mining efforts and the removal of technical and military obstacles by Iran. Furthermore, Iran will engage in discussions with the Sultanate of Oman and other Persian Gulf littoral states regarding the future administration and maritime services of the Strait, adhering to international law and sovereign rights.
Economic Reconstruction and Sanctions Relief
The peace pact includes an ambitious economic and reconstruction package for Iran, valued at a minimum of $300 billion, to be developed with regional partners. The United States has committed to providing necessary licenses, waivers, and permissions for related financial transactions. A key component of the deal is the scheduled ending of all sanctions on Iran as part of the final agreement. This comprehensive lifting of sanctions will encompass measures from the UN Security Council, IAEA Board of Governors resolutions, and all primary and secondary US sanctions. Additionally, the US Treasury will issue waivers allowing exports of Iranian crude oil, petroleum products, and derivatives, along with associated services like banking, insurance, and transportation, until sanctions are fully removed. Iran's frozen or restricted funds and assets will also be made accessible, with procedures for their release and use to be agreed upon during negotiations.
Nuclear Commitments and Oversight
Under the terms of the agreement, Iran has reaffirmed its commitment to neither acquire nor develop nuclear weapons. Both nations will negotiate a mechanism to manage Iran's stockpile of enriched material, with on-site down-blending under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) supervision being the minimum method envisioned. Discussions will also cover uranium enrichment and other nuclear-related issues within a framework to be established in the final deal. During the interim period, Iran will not expand its current nuclear program, while the US will refrain from imposing new sanctions or deploying additional forces to the region.
Path to a Final Agreement and International Endorsement
Washington and Tehran aim to negotiate a final agreement within 60 days of the MOU's signing, with an option for extension by mutual consent. Both countries have committed to respecting each other's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to refraining from interference in internal affairs. A joint executive mechanism will be established to monitor the implementation of the MOU and ensure compliance with the eventual final agreement. The final agreement itself will be formally endorsed through a binding United Nations Security Council resolution, cementing its international legitimacy and permanence.