US President Donald Trump announced that a deal with Iran was “very possible” as the United States proposed a one-page memorandum of understanding to end the ongoing conflict that began on February 28. Trump appeared optimistic about a diplomatic breakthrough but threatened to attack Tehran again if negotiations failed.
Iran has not yet responded to the proposal. However, Reuters and American outlet Axios have sources reporting that both countries were “closing in on a one-page memo to end their war” and “set a framework for more detailed nuclear negotiations.”
Hopes remain afloat as sources told Axios the proposal was the closest the two nations have been to an agreement since the beginning of the war. Washington negotiators expect a response from Tehran in 48 hours.
According to leaks from the United States and Pakistan, there are 14 key points in the memo. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserted that the country will only accept a “fair and comprehensive agreement”.
Certain provisions in the memo include a temporary suspension on Iran’s nuclear enrichment, US lifting its sanctions and releasing billions in frozen Iranian funds, and both countries lifting the blockade on the Strait of Hormuz.
The memoradum is currently in the form of a framework rather than a full treaty. According to Axios, it could mark the start of a 30-day period of negotiations discussing the key provisions, which could take place in Islamabad or Geneva.
Axios reported that the two parties are discussing the duratin of the suspension on uranium enrichment, with sources predicting a period of 12 to 15 years. Iran had previously proposed a 5-year halt while the United States were adamant on 20. The Trump administration also called for the addition of a provision which extends the suspension in case of any enrichment violations by Iran. After the proposed period, Iran could do enrichments up to 3.67%.
The memo reportedly requires Iran to never seek a nuclear weapon or conduct weaponisation-related activities. In addition, two sources have come forward with claims of Iran requiring to give up its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, a key issue that had frequently come up in past negotiations. According to reports, an option to move the material to the United States is being discussed.
Trump gave a statement regarding the memo, ensuring that the war would be over if Iran agrees to the provisions.
Meanwhile, spokesperson of Iran’s Foreign Ministry Esmaeil Baqaei told local reporters that the proposal was under review and that Tehran would subsequently communicate its stance to mediator Pakistan.
Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, on the other hand, has criticised the United States, alleging that Washington “is seeking, through a naval blockade, economic pressure and media manipulation, to destroy the country’s cohesion in order to force us to surrender”.
