US, Iran to sign 14-point MOU to end war; draft details ceasefire, aid, nuclear commitment

CNN has obtained a draft of a 14-point memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the United States and Iran, reportedly set to be signed on the 19th, which aims to end the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The draft, confirmed by three diplomatic sources, outlines key terms including an immediate and permanent cessation of hostilities on all fronts, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, financial assistance to Iran, and a reaffirmation by Iran that it will never pursue nuclear weapons.

The unreleased document, acquired by CNN from a U.S. official, details conditions such as respect for sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, and a commitment to negotiate a final agreement within 60 days, extendable by mutual consent. Upon signing, the U.S. would lift its maritime blockade on Iran and restore traffic within 30 days. Iran, in turn, would ensure the restoration of merchant ship passage through the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman to pre-war levels within 30 days, addressing technical obstacles and mine clearance.

Furthermore, the U.S. pledges to work with regional partners on a comprehensive reconstruction and economic development plan for Iran, providing at least $300 billion in funding. Sanctions against Iran, including those from UN Security Council and IAEA resolutions, as well as unilateral U.S. sanctions, are to be lifted according to a timetable in the final agreement. Iran reiterates its commitment not to manufacture nuclear weapons, with the final agreement to address the disposition of enriched materials and other nuclear-related matters, including Iran's nuclear needs. The draft also stipulates that during the negotiation period, Iran will maintain its current nuclear program status, and the U.S. will not impose new sanctions or enhance military presence in the region. The U.S. Treasury will issue waivers for Iranian oil and petrochemical exports, and frozen assets are to be released.