Iran and the US are once again close to finalising a 14-point memorandum of understanding (MoU) to end the war and set a framework for further negotiations, news organisation Axios reported, citing sources. Notably, the US expects Iranian responses on key points within the next 48 hours. However, both parties have yet to agree on anything. What are the points? The key provisions of include- 1. Iran commits to halt nuclear enrichment 2. US agrees to lift its sanctions 3. US to release frozen Iranian funds 4. Both sides lift restrictions around transit through the Strait of Hormuz. The final imposition of these conditions will only be after a round of negotiation between US and Iranian officials. However, the failure of previous efforts of peace talks and negotiations highlights that these efforts may result in further complications or continue the uncertainty around the West Asia war. What is the reality? Time and again, both Iran and US have expressed optimism over dealings at the negotiation table, but no conclusion has been reached between both sides. However, several media reports suggest that US President Trump’s decision to halt ‘Operation Freedom’ in the Strait of Hormuz was based on progress in the talks. The 14 MOU is being negotiated between Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner and several Iranian officials, both directly and through mediators. What will happen MoU is imposed? If the MoU is implemented after final negotiations, it will declare an end to the war in West Asia. Additionally, it would start a 30-day period of negotiations on a detailed agreement to open the Strait of Hormuz, limit Iran’s nuclear program, and lift US sanctions on Iran. After this, Iran’s restrictions on shipping through Hormuz and the US naval blockade would be gradually lifted during those 30 days. These negotiations could happen in Islamabad or Geneva, according to resources. However, if the negotiations collapse, US forces would be able to restore the blockade or resume military action. Additionally, if Iran were to commit to the MOU, it would never seek a nuclear weapon or conduct weaponisation-related activities or testing. According to a U.S. official, the parties are discussing a clause whereby Iran would commit not to operate underground nuclear facilities. They would also commit to an enhanced inspection regime, including snap inspections by UN inspectors. What will be the duration of halt on Iran’s uranium enrichment? The duration of the halt on uranium enrichment is in key focus, as the US wants to insert a provision whereby any Iranian violation of enrichment would prolong the halt on such activities. According to media reports, the halt on Iran’s Uranium enrichment would be at least 12 to 15 years. However, Iran has proposed a 5-year halt and the US has demanded 20. Iran would be able to enrich to the low level of 3.67% after to the MoU’s expiration.
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