Iran-US deal hinges on memorandum terms, says minister

Negotiations between Iran and the United States are nearing a critical juncture, with a final agreement dependent on the specifics of a memorandum of understanding, according to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

Araghchi told state television that the memorandum, if signed, would lead to the release of Iran's frozen assets and the cessation of a US naval blockade. He indicated that the draft text has undergone revisions and cautioned against public discussion of its details to avoid escalating media tensions and complicating the signing process.

The Iranian minister stressed that US nuclear-related demands are currently unacceptable to Tehran. He also highlighted that the memorandum would address the US naval blockade, asserting that international law does not permit tolls on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, though service charges for passage could be formalized.

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Our sword will always remain over the Strait of Hormuz, and whenever necessary, Iran’s armed forces will intervene.

"Our sword will always remain over the Strait of Hormuz, and whenever necessary, Iran’s armed forces will intervene," Araghchi stated, adding that service charges would be introduced for the strait. He further commented that the conflict arose because Iran refused to compromise its national interests, asserting that "the enemy will not obtain through negotiations what it failed to achieve through war."

Araghchi also mentioned that the Supreme National Security Council is overseeing the negotiation process and pointed to opposition from Israel, which he accused of trying to obstruct the deal. His remarks followed a statement by US President Donald Trump suggesting a final agreement could be reached soon.

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The enemy will not obtain through negotiations what it failed to achieve through war.