The United States and Iran took a major step toward ending the war overnight after signing a memorandum of understanding meant to halt the fighting. The agreement was signed digitally, allowing it to take effect immediately.
U.S. President Donald Trump signed the document during a trip to France, while attending a formal dinner with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Palace of Versailles. American officials said a photo of the signed document was then sent to Iranian representatives and to the mediators involved in the talks. The White House later confirmed that Trump completed the signing process while in France. As he left Versailles, Trump was asked about the deal and told reporters, “It is signed.”
Trump aide Dan Scavino posted video of the signing online and quoted Secretary of State Marco Rubio as calling it “a significant moment in history.” In Tehran, officials also confirmed that the memorandum had been formally signed by the presidents of both countries.
An Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman said Lebanon is a central component of the agreement and that a ceasefire there had been a strategic goal throughout the negotiations. He said the accord specifically refers to Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, along with additional commitments aimed at stabilizing the region. On Iran’s nuclear program, Tehran said its enriched nuclear material will not be transferred خارج its borders.
Iranian officials said early signs of implementation were already visible, including renewed movement of Iranian ships to international ports without interference. They also said control of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important shipping lanes, will remain with Iran and Oman, with Iran continuing to manage services there under existing arrangements. Tehran added that further implementation depends on all sides fully honoring their commitments, warning, “We will examine the other side’s actions and act accordingly.”
