US and Iran agree on understanding to end war, lift blockade

The United States and Iran have reached a memorandum of understanding aimed at extending a ceasefire and creating a political framework for a more detailed agreement to end the war. The understanding is expected to be formally signed at a ceremony in Switzerland in the coming days. American officials outlined the 14 points of the plan to international media. The agreement mandates an immediate and permanent cessation of military operations by the US, Iran, and their allies on all fronts, including Lebanon, where Israel has launched an offensive against Hezbollah. Neither party will initiate military operations or threaten each other, and Lebanon's territorial integrity and sovereignty will be secured. The final agreement will lead to a permanent end to the conflict. Under the agreement, both the US and Iran will respect each other's sovereignty and territorial integrity, refraining from interfering in internal affairs. They commit to negotiating and finalizing a comprehensive agreement within 60 days, though this timeframe can be extended by mutual consent. The US will begin lifting its naval blockade of Iran within 30 days, with full lifting contingent on Iran restoring traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. US forces will also withdraw from areas near Iran within 30 days of the final agreement's signing. Iran will take measures to ensure safe passage for merchant ships through the Strait of Hormuz without tolls, and will cooperate with Oman and other Gulf states on broader management of the strait. Additionally, the US and regional partners will develop a reconstruction plan for Iran valued at least $300 billion, with all necessary licenses and permits to be issued by the US within 60 days of the final agreement. The US will also lift all economic sanctions against Iran, including those imposed by the UN Security Council.