US and Iran Reach Deal to End 106-Day War

After 106 days of conflict, the United States and Iran have confirmed reaching a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to end their war. Public opposition to the protracted conflict, coupled with a growing economic crisis and the downsides of a full-scale war, reportedly brought the nations to the negotiating table. The official signing ceremony is scheduled to take place in Switzerland on Friday.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced the agreement on his Truth Social platform, stating, "The Deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete." He further declared, "I hereby fully authorize the toll free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and, simultaneously herewith, authorize the immediate removal of the United States Naval blockade." Trump urged global shipping, "Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow!"

“

The Deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete. I hereby fully authorize the toll free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and, simultaneously herewith, authorize the immediate removal of the United States Naval blockade. Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow!

Iran's Supreme National Security Council secretariat also confirmed the draft MOU, stating that the war and military operations on all fronts, including Lebanon, would end "immediately and permanently." The statement, according to the semi-official Tasnim News Agency, also confirmed the termination of the naval blockade against Iran. This development followed reports that Iran was prepared to suspend negotiations and retaliate after Israeli strikes on southern Beirut, but was persuaded by "renewed intervention by US President Donald Trump and concessions offered."

Despite the agreement, details surrounding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz remain a point of contention. While Trump authorized its "toll free opening," Iran asserts its authority to manage passage through the strait. Furthermore, the two sides are divided on the issue of Iran's nuclear program, which is slated for negotiation during 60 days of talks following the MOU signing. Iran's deputy foreign minister indicated that the next phase of negotiations would only begin after Iranian assets are unfrozen, a stance the U.S. counters by requiring Tehran to fulfill its commitments first.

“

Under the agreements reached, the war and military operations on all fronts, including Lebanon, are ended immediately and permanently. Furthermore, the naval blockade against Iran is terminated immediately and completely.