Iran backs 'memorandum of understanding with America' as best way out of stalemate

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has championed a memorandum of understanding with the United States, describing it as the optimal path for Iran to escape its current state of "neither war nor peace." In a speech published by the official IRNA news agency, Raisi emphasized that the agreement, supported by Iran's Supreme National Security Council, is the best possible deal crafted with national dignity, wisdom, and interests in mind.

Raisi asserted that the memorandum includes no clauses requiring concessions from Iran. He clarified that the Supreme Leader dictates policy, and the administration will adhere to that path. The agreement, initially set with a 60-day deadline by former U.S. President Donald Trump to resolve the conflict and address Iran's nuclear program, concluded last week with significant disagreements persisting.

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There is no clause in this memorandum that indicates any concessions from the Iranian side. The Supreme Leader sets the policies, and we will adhere to this path.

Key sticking points include the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping lane. Raisi stressed that Tehran would not back down from its adversaries but linked a potential agreement to Iran's economic recovery. He noted that the current stalemate deters investment, as capital is highly sensitive to risk, and these risks must be mitigated.

Following approximately six months of conflict with the U.S. and Israel, Iran's economy is struggling under sanctions and a naval blockade that severely hampers its oil exports, a primary revenue source for the nation.

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Capital and money are highly sensitive to risks. We must remove these risks from the country.