WASHINGTON: Iran and the United States are reportedly close to reaching an agreement aimed at ending the war in the Middle East and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, according to reports by Reuters and Axios.
Axios, citing US officials, first reported that the White House believes it is nearing a one-page memorandum designed to end the conflict, which began on February 28 following joint US–Israel strikes against Iran.
Although Pakistan brokered a two-week ceasefire on April 8 after six weeks of fighting, Tehran and Washington were unable to reach a permanent settlement during direct talks held in Islamabad between April 10 and 11.
The reports now suggest that Iran and the US are close to finalising a 14-point memorandum of understanding (MoU) to formally end the war, Reuters said, citing a source.
Axios also outlined key details of the proposed MoU currently being negotiated between senior US and Iranian officials.
One of the main provisions would declare an official end to the ongoing war in the region.
The agreement would also initiate a 30-day negotiation period to develop a detailed framework for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, placing limits on Iran’s nuclear programme, and easing US sanctions.
During this 30-day period, Iran’s restrictions on shipping through the strait and the US naval blockade would be gradually lifted, according to the draft plan.
However, a US official noted that if negotiations fail, US forces would retain the option to reinstate the blockade or resume military action against Iran.
The US is also actively negotiating how long Iran would pause uranium enrichment activities, with three sources suggesting a minimum of 12 years and one indicating 15 years as the likely outcome.
Iran has reportedly proposed a five-year moratorium, while the US has pushed for a 20-year suspension.
Washington is also seeking a clause that would extend the moratorium if Iran is found to violate enrichment restrictions, according to sources.
Under the proposal, Iran would be allowed to resume low-level uranium enrichment of up to 3.67% after the moratorium expires.
The US is also insisting that Iran formally commit to never pursuing nuclear weapons or engaging in any weaponisation-related activities.
Additionally, discussions include a provision that would prohibit Iran from operating underground nuclear facilities, a US official said.
Iran would also agree to an enhanced inspection regime, including snap inspections conducted by United Nations nuclear inspectors.
In return, Washington would commit to a phased lifting of sanctions on Iran and the gradual release of billions of dollars in Iranian assets frozen worldwide.
Two sources further claimed that Tehran would agree to remove highly enriched uranium from the country, with one source suggesting that options include transferring the material to the United States.