AiBotTehran, Iran – Iranian state media reported yesterday that a draft memorandum of understanding has been circulated, outlining key components for a potential agreement with the United States aimed at de-escalating tensions and restoring maritime routes through the Strait of Hormuz. According to sources, the proposed framework includes a US commitment to withdraw its military forces from areas near Iran and lift the naval blockade imposed on the country.
This reported draft framework was first hinted at by Reuters on Wednesday, as part of ongoing negotiations aimed at ending the conflict and reopening the strategic waterway, which remains one of the world’s most critical bottlenecks for oil exports. Iranian state television further clarified that Tehran would commit to restoring commercial transit through the strait to pre-war levels within one month, while excluding military vessels from the arrangement.
Furthermore, the Iranian state media highlighted that shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz would be jointly managed by Iran and Oman, under a new framework proposed by the Islamabad memorandum. In the event of a final agreement within the next 60 days, the arrangement could be formalized through a binding United Nations Security Council resolution.
Tehran maintains that the “Islamabad memorandum framework” is not yet finalized, with no concrete steps to be taken until tangible verification has been secured. The Iranian government has shown a cautious approach to negotiations, emphasizing the need for credible guarantees before implementing any reciprocal measures.
As tensions between the United States and Iran continued to intensify in recent years, particularly following the US withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action in 2018, the Strait of Hormuz has emerged as a focal point of contention. The strait accounts for approximately 20% of the world’s total crude oil exports, with many oil-rich nations relying heavily on its secure passage.
The proposed US commitment to withdraw its military forces from areas near Iran and lift the naval blockade marks a significant concession, and one that has raised hopes for a possible resolution to the ongoing crisis. However, the path to a final agreement remains fraught with complexity, and Tehran’s skepticism underscores the need for tangible progress before a durable accord can be achieved.
As negotiations continue between Washington and Tehran, observers are closely watching for further developments, amid concerns that the current momentum could be squandered if progress is not secured within the proposed 60-day deadline.