Senior US officials dictated the terms of a memorandum of understanding with Iran to journalists Wednesday following days of secrecy. Speaking on condition of anonymity, they detailed the draft ahead of a formal signing ceremony scheduled for Friday in Switzerland.
The agreement establishes new minimum standards for downblending highly enriched Iranian uranium. It also includes provisions ensuring the territorial integrity of Lebanon following recent Israeli military operations against Hezbollah. In exchange, Washington will waive specific wide-ranging sanctions once the deal is executed.
The draft secures toll-free passage through the Strait of Hormuz for sixty days but does not preclude future fees. Leaked copies suggest Iran could receive at least $300 billion for post-war reconstruction. This arrangement allows immediate oil sales and offers eventual sanction relief, exceeding terms from the 2015 nuclear pact.
President Donald Trump has expressed uncertainty regarding the upcoming ceremony, citing the unpredictable nature of diplomatic deals. The interim agreement pauses hostilities to open a two-month nuclear negotiation window. However, the concessions face intense opposition in Washington and represent a significant strategic setback for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.