Abbas Araghchi: Memorandum of Understanding with the US to be Signed in Coming Days

Step One; The 14-Article Islamabad Memorandum

Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Iran's Foreign Minister, announced in a special news interview that Iran and the United States are very close to signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) [1]. This document, known as the "Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding," is the result of long-term mediation by Pakistan and is intended to serve as the first phase of a two-stage process to end hostilities [3]. According to Araghchi, this memorandum includes 14 key clauses that provide the initial framework for halting conflicts and returning to the table for serious negotiations [4].

The Foreign Minister emphasized that the signing of this document will likely take place in the coming days and will be done digitally to reduce the complexities of in-person protocols [1]. He noted that this memorandum does not constitute a final agreement, but rather a necessary step to enter the second phase of negotiations, which will last 60 days [3].

Management of the Strait of Hormuz and the End of the Naval Blockade

One of the most important parts of this memorandum is the issue of maritime security and the status of the Strait of Hormuz. Araghchi stated that based on the current draft, the United States has committed to completely lifting the naval blockade of Iranian ports [1]. In return, Iran has emphasized its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz but has agreed to establish a system for receiving "service fees" from passing vessels, in accordance with international law [4].

Regarding this, Araghchi said: "Our sword will still be over the Strait of Hormuz, but its management will change in a legal and transparent manner" [3]. The agreement also includes a commitment by both parties not to start a new war and not to interfere in each other's internal affairs, such that for the first time in recent decades, Washington has explicitly emphasized respect for Iran's national sovereignty.

Release of Assets and Suspension of the Nuclear File

In the economic sphere, reports indicate that the United Arab Emirates is ready to release $20 billion of Iran's frozen assets, $3 billion of which has already been delivered [3]. The full release of these financial resources is cited as one of Iran's main conditions for entering the second stage of negotiations.

Regarding the nuclear file, Araghchi announced that sensitive issues such as 60% enrichment and the fate of uranium stockpiles have been postponed to the second phase of negotiations [4]. However, he emphasized that Tehran's definitive position is the dilution of enriched uranium only within Iranian territory, and no material will be transferred out of the country [1].

Reactions; From Trump's Support to Hardliner Opposition

These diplomatic developments have met with widespread reactions. US President Donald Trump, by reposting Araghchi's statements on social media, has welcomed the proximity to a "Big Deal" [2]. Inside Iran, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the Speaker of Parliament, has taken responsibility for monitoring the implementation of the other party's commitments [3].

However, critics on both sides have expressed concern over the details of this memorandum. Some Western analysts see this agreement as an acceptance of part of Iran's maximum demands, while hardliners in Tehran have warned of Washington's potential breach of promise [5]. Benjamin Netanyahu has also declared his strong opposition to any agreement that results in reduced pressure on Iran [2].