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US–Iran preliminary memorandum to end war nears agreement

A 14-point draft outlines a ceasefire framework and 30-day talks on Iran’s nuclear program, sanctions relief, and maritime security

The United States and Iran are close to reaching a US–Iran preliminary memorandum to end war, a one-page, 14-point document designed to halt hostilities and establish a framework for more detailed nuclear negotiations.

According to U.S. sources cited by Axios, the draft was developed by American envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner in coordination with Iranian counterparts, through both direct contacts and intermediaries. Washington is expecting responses from Tehran on several key provisions within hours.

A two-phase framework

In its current form, the memorandum sets out a two-stage process: an immediate end to the conflict in the region, followed by a 30-day window for structured negotiations.

Those talks would address core issues including Iran’s nuclear program, the security of shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz, and the phased lifting of U.S. sanctions. Two sources indicated that negotiations could take place in Islamabad or Geneva.

Maritime measures and enforcement

A U.S. official said restrictions imposed by Iran on navigation in the Strait, along with the U.S. naval blockade, would be gradually lifted over the 30-day period.

If negotiations fail, the same official noted, U.S. forces would be prepared to reinstate the blockade or resume military operations.

Dispute over uranium enrichment

The duration of a proposed Iranian moratorium on uranium enrichment remains a central point of contention.

Three sources said the pause would last at least 12 years, while another suggested 15 years as a potential compromise. Iran has proposed a five-year moratorium, while the United States has pushed for 20 years.

Washington is also seeking to include a clause under which any Iranian violation would automatically extend the duration of the moratorium.

Nuclear commitments and inspections

Under the draft terms, Iran would commit to never pursuing nuclear weapons, to refrain from operating underground nuclear facilities, and to accept an enhanced inspection regime, including surprise inspections by United Nations inspectors.

Sanctions relief and frozen assets

In return, the United States would commit to a gradual lifting of sanctions and the phased release of billions of dollars in Iranian assets currently frozen abroad.

Two informed sources also said Iran would agree to remove highly enriched uranium from its territory, a key U.S. demand that Tehran has previously resisted.

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