A memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran could be signed within days, according to officials involved in the negotiations, with the proposed US-Iran deal focused on extending a regional ceasefire, reopening the Strait of Hormuz and advancing talks over Tehran’s nuclear programme.
According to a diplomat from one of the mediating countries and a US official, the agreement would extend the current ceasefire for 60 days, including in Lebanon, while providing a framework for further nuclear negotiations.
US President Donald Trump has indicated that a signing ceremony could take place over the weekend, although Iranian officials say a final decision has not yet been made.
Nuclear commitments and sanctions relief
Under the proposed US-Iran deal, Iran would commit to never acquiring a nuclear weapon and would work towards resolving the dispute surrounding its stockpile of enriched uranium.
A senior US official said one option under discussion would involve down-blending Iran’s highly enriched uranium within the country under the supervision of the United Nations.
However, any concrete steps regarding Iran’s nuclear programme would depend on a second, more detailed agreement being reached in subsequent negotiations.
In return, the United States would provide sanctions relief linked to Iran’s compliance with the agreement. Officials said temporary sanctions waivers could allow Tehran to resume oil exports for an initial 60-day period, with additional relief possible if Iran demonstrates good faith during future talks.
Strait of Hormuz to reopen
One of the most significant provisions of the draft agreement calls for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz without tolls.
The agreement envisages a return to pre-conflict shipping volumes within 30 days. In parallel, the United States would lift its blockade measures.
Negotiators have also discussed mechanisms that would allow Iran to access some of its frozen funds held abroad, particularly for the purchase of humanitarian goods. However, questions remain over how larger frozen assets would be released and under what conditions.
Qatar and Pakistan mediate talks
According to sources familiar with the negotiations, the tentative agreement was reached after hours of talks involving Qatari mediator Ali Al-Thawadi and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
During the discussions, communication reportedly continued between Iranian officials and Trump’s envoys, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
Sources also said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was caught off guard by Trump’s public announcement that a deal had been finalised.
Islamabad agreement under consideration
If signed, the accord would reportedly be known as the “Islamabad Agreement”, reflecting the joint mediation efforts of Qatar and Pakistan.
Diplomats involved in the process said work continues on final details and on setting a date for a formal signing ceremony.
While negotiators have expressed optimism, officials acknowledge that previous rounds of talks came close to agreement before ultimately collapsing, leaving uncertainty over whether the latest breakthrough will hold.
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