The United States and Iran are reportedly moving closer to a temporary agreement that could pause hostilities in the Middle East and open the door for broader nuclear negotiations.
According to reports by Reuters and Axios, negotiators are reportedly discussing a one-page memorandum of understanding (MoU) containing 14 key points that could serve as a framework for future talks. While no final agreement has been reached, sources told Axios that this is the closest Washington and Tehran have come to a breakthrough since the conflict began three months ago.
US President Donald Trump expressed optimism about the talks but also issued a warning.
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"We've had very good talks over the last 24 hours, and it's very possible that we'll make a deal," Trump said, per an NDTV report. He added that if "Iran agrees to give what has been agreed to", the war could end, but if negotiations collapse, bombing would resume "at a much higher level and intensity".
What is in the proposed memo?
The reported draft remains a broad framework rather than a detailed treaty. According to Axios, the MOU would formally declare an end to the war and begin a 30-day negotiation period for a larger agreement.
One of the central provisions involves Iran agreeing to a moratorium on uranium enrichment. Sources cited by Axios said both sides are discussing a timeline of around 12 to 15 years. Iran had earlier proposed five years, while the US reportedly sought 20 years.
The draft also includes provisions requiring Iran to avoid weaponisation-related activities, stop operating underground nuclear facilities and allow enhanced inspections, including snap inspections by UN inspectors.
Another key US demand reportedly involves removing Iran's highly enriched uranium stockpile from the country.
Sanctions relief and Hormuz transit
In return, Washington would gradually lift sanctions imposed on Iran and release billions of dollars in frozen Iranian funds.
The memorandum also reportedly proposes easing restrictions around transit through the Strait of Hormuz, a major global shipping route affected during the conflict.
Negotiations on the detailed agreement may take place in Islamabad or Geneva.
Iran remains cautious
Iran has not officially accepted the proposal yet. Iranian Foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran would only accept "a fair and comprehensive agreement".
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Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said the "US plan and proposal are still under review".
Meanwhile, Iran's parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accused Washington of trying "to force us to surrender".
