Iran and US on the brink of a ceasefire: memorandum to end war could be signed within days
60 days for a final agreement, uranium dilution on Iranian soil, unfreezing of assets, reopening of the Strait of Hormuz with no passage fees (only reasonable service charges) — and no new war. Pakistan acts as mediator.
As reported by CCTV+, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said on Friday evening that a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the United States to end the war could be signed in the coming days. In an interview with state TV IRIB, Araghchi said that after finalizing the MoU, both sides would sign it electronically in their respective countries and then announce its signing.
He added that after the potential signing, both sides would commit to not starting any new wars and would begin the second phase of negotiations, scheduled for 60 days, to reach a final agreement mainly concerning Iran's nuclear program and the lifting of sanctions. Araghchi stressed that Tehran insists the only acceptable way to handle highly enriched uranium is to dilute it on Iranian soil.
Araghchi also said the potential MoU would include provisions for ending the war on all fronts, including Lebanon, requiring Israel to withdraw its forces from occupied territories. Among other key issues in the MoU are the resumption of operations in the Strait of Hormuz, the full lifting of the US naval blockade of Iran, and the unfreezing of Iranian assets. Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Araghchi stated that its management would definitely not return to the pre war era. While Iran would retain sovereignty and military presence, a legal system consistent with international law would be established. He ruled out imposing transit fees but noted that service charges would be reasonable.
US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that the United States had "just reached a great deal on the war with Iran," and that an agreement was expected "within the next few days." In recent weeks, Iran and the US have exchanged several peace proposals mediated by Pakistan.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most strategically vital maritime chokepoints, through which about 20% of global oil passes. Iran's blockade during the conflict caused a spike in energy prices. Iranian frozen assets (estimated at tens of billions of dollars) were blocked in foreign banks after sanctions were imposed. Diluting highly enriched uranium to levels suitable for civilian energy is a key demand of the international community.
War always ends with words on paper. But this text is electronic, signed from a distance. Two countries that were exchanging blows just yesterday are now negotiating peace through Pakistan. Sixty days to turn a memorandum into a lasting agreement. Uranium that will be diluted on Iranian soil. A strait that will reopen for tankers. And a promise not to start new wars. Perhaps this is a fragile chance. But even a fragile peace is better than the most convincing war.
