2 hours ago2 hr Details of a reported 14-point memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the United States and Iran have emerged, outlining a framework for extending a ceasefire, easing sanctions and opening negotiations toward a broader agreement between the two countries.Get today's headlines by email The document has not been officially released by either government. However, Bloomberg News and Al Arabiya published what they described as the text of the agreement, which is expected to be signed on Friday.A central feature of the reported framework is a commitment by Iran not to produce or acquire nuclear weapons. While the document addresses future discussions on Tehran’s nuclear programme, it does not appear to provide a detailed solution to outstanding nuclear issues.Nuclear talks and negotiation timelineUnder the reported terms, Iran and the United States would begin negotiations aimed at reaching a final agreement within 60 days of signing the MoU. The deadline could be extended if both sides agree.The text states that Iran would reaffirm its pledge never to develop nuclear weapons. It also says that the future of Iran’s enriched uranium stockpiles and other nuclear-related matters, including the country’s civilian nuclear requirements, would be addressed during negotiations on a final agreement.The agreement further provides that, after a final deal is signed, Iran would maintain the existing status of its nuclear programme while the United States would refrain from imposing new sanctions or increasing its military presence in the region.Ceasefire and regional securityAccording to the reported document, the agreement would establish an immediate and permanent end to hostilities “on all fronts, including Lebanon”. Both sides, along with their allies involved in the conflict, would commit not to carry out hostile actions or threaten the use of force against one another.Although Israel is not named in the text, references to allies involved in the conflict suggest that Israeli military operations in Lebanon are included within the ceasefire framework.The MoU also calls on both countries to respect each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and avoid interference in domestic affairs.In addition, the United States would reportedly lift the naval blockade on Iranian ports immediately after the agreement is signed and withdraw its forces from surrounding areas within 30 days of a final settlement.Iran, for its part, would take immediate steps to restore shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, with the aim of returning commercial traffic between the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman to pre-war levels within 30 days.Sanctions relief and economic supportThe reported framework outlines extensive sanctions relief for Iran.The United States would commit to ending sanctions imposed through multiple channels, including unilateral American measures and sanctions linked to international bodies, according to a timetable to be determined in a final agreement.Washington would also issue waivers allowing exports of Iranian oil, petrochemical products and related services, including banking, insurance and transportation, until broader sanctions are lifted.The document additionally states that the US would release frozen or restricted Iranian assets as negotiations progress. Those funds would be available for use under the direction of Iran’s central bank.Toward a final agreementAnother provision calls for the United States and regional partners to develop a programme for Iran’s economic rehabilitation and growth, supported by at least $300 billion in financing. The mechanism for implementing the plan would be negotiated within 60 days.The MoU also proposes the creation of an oversight mechanism to monitor implementation and compliance with a future agreement.Once key provisions related to military withdrawals, maritime access, sanctions waivers and asset releases begin to take effect, negotiations would continue on the remaining elements of a final settlement.According to the reported text, any final agreement would ultimately be endorsed through a binding resolution of the UN Security Council.Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 17 June 2026 View full article
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