The American publication Axios, citing its sources, has reported that Washington is moving toward an agreement with Iran on a one-page memorandum of understanding (MoF) to end the war and establish a framework for detailed nuclear negotiations.
The media outlet reported on Wednesday, May 6, that the United States expects to receive Iran’s response on several key points within the next 48 hours.
No agreement has been reached yet, but sources told Axios that this is the closest the two sides have come to a deal since the beginning of the war.
According to the report, the agreement would include Iran’s commitment to halt nuclear enrichment, the United States’ agreement to lift sanctions and unfreeze billions of dollars in Iranian assets, as well as the removal of restrictions related to the passage through the Strait of Hormuz by both sides.
The White House believes that Iran’s leadership is divided, and it may be difficult to reach a consensus among different factions.
U.S. officials have been optimistic about reaching a deal at several points during past negotiations and throughout the current war, but no agreement has been reached so far.
According to Axios, this memorandum would declare an end to the war in the region and mark the beginning of 30 days of negotiations aimed at reaching a detailed agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, limit Iran’s nuclear program, and lift U.S. sanctions.
Sources told the outlet that these negotiations could be held in Pakistan or Geneva.
According to the report, during this period, Iran would gradually lift the restrictions it has imposed on the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump had previously said that, due to progress in the negotiations, he would suspend “Operation Freedom,” which allows ships to pass safely through the Strait of Hormuz.
