Trump ready to sign US-Iran deal involving Strait of Hormuz, sanctions relief

A preliminary agreement between the United States and Iran, reportedly backed by President Donald Trump, could soon lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and sanctions relief for Tehran. This deal hinges on Iran's compliance with its terms, according to a diplomat from a mediating country and an American official.

The memorandum of understanding is considered critical as it would extend a ceasefire for 60 days, including the Lebanon region. During this period, negotiations concerning Iran's nuclear program would take place. The text outlines a framework for managing Tehran's enriched uranium stockpiles, with any further actions dependent on a more detailed subsequent agreement.

A diplomat involved in the mediation expressed optimism about the text, stating that "the US and Iran have agreed on the text of the agreement." However, final approval is still pending. Sources familiar with the negotiations indicated that the Iranian side had approved the deal at a high level by Thursday evening, but Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei had not yet given his consent. An Iranian Foreign Ministry representative stated that Tehran "has not yet made a final decision."

The White House has previously suggested that an agreement was imminent, only for it to fail. This time, however, the mediating diplomat is hopeful that the agreed-upon text will be upheld. The preliminary deal was reportedly reached after extensive talks between Qatari mediator Ali Al-Thawadi and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The terms of the memorandum reportedly include Iran's commitment to never acquire a nuclear weapon and to resolve issues concerning enriched uranium, with one option being dilution within the country under UN supervision.