The White House on Wednesday evening released a draft memorandum of understanding with Iran that outlines the principles of a developing agreement, including the costs and commitments expected from both sides. According to the text, the United States and Iran would immediately and permanently end all attack operations on every front, including Lebanon, pledge not to wage war on each other, and refrain from threats or the use of force. Both sides would also respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and each other’s sovereignty, while avoiding interference in internal affairs.
The final deal is supposed to be signed within 60 days, with any extension requiring mutual consent. Under the draft, Washington would begin lifting the naval blockade and other restrictions on Iran and finish that process within 30 days. After the final agreement is completed, U.S. forces stationed near Iran would withdraw within one month. In return, Iran would guarantee safe, free passage for commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz for 60 days without fees, restore maritime traffic immediately, and complete steps such as mine clearing and future maritime management arrangements with regional states.
The economic portion is described as especially significant. The United States would promote a reconstruction and economic development program for Iran worth at least $300 billion and provide the approvals and licenses needed for financial transactions. Washington would also work to remove all sanctions on Iran, including U.S. sanctions, UN Security Council measures, and decisions tied to the International Atomic Energy Agency.
On the nuclear issue, Iran says it will not acquire or develop nuclear weapons. The sides also agreed that Iran’s enriched material would be handled under an agreed mechanism, with the basic method described as on-site dilution under IAEA supervision. Until the final agreement is signed, the current status quo would remain: Iran would keep its existing nuclear posture, while the United States would impose no new sanctions and deploy no additional forces in the region. The draft also includes a U.S. commitment to allow Iranian oil exports and release frozen Iranian funds and assets, plus a monitoring mechanism to oversee implementation and the future accord.
