A leaked memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran is being described as a deal that gives Tehran major benefits up front while pushing its obligations into the future. In the Israeli analysis, Iran secures almost everything it wanted in a temporary arrangement, while Washington gives up its strongest leverage on day one.
Under the draft, the U.S. Treasury would immediately grant waivers allowing Iran to export oil freely, return to the global banking system, and receive insurance and shipping services. Washington would also pledge to lift the naval blockade on Iran within 30 days, begin releasing frozen Iranian assets and funds around the world, worth billions of dollars, directly to the Central Bank of Iran as talks progress, and refrain from imposing any new sanctions during the negotiation period.
In return, Iran would immediately agree to a ceasefire and stop fighting on all fronts, including Lebanon. At sea, it would clear the mines it had laid and restore shipping in the Gulf. On the nuclear issue, Iran would not dismantle any uranium infrastructure, but would only promise to preserve the status quo for 60 days and repeat that it will never develop a nuclear weapon.
The parts deferred to a final agreement are even more extensive: a possible $300 billion package from the U.S. and partners, full cancellation of UN, IAEA and American sanctions, an American pullback and withdrawal of Western forces from areas around Iran, and unresolved decisions on enriched uranium and real nuclear oversight. The article says the outcome of the first 60 days will determine whether this is a sophisticated Trump trap or a dangerous surrender, and whether Washington will restore pressure if the deal stalls or collapses.
