A Peace Deal That Wasn’t Expected: Full Text and Analysis of the U.S.–Iran MOU

The United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran have jointly released a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that—despite decades of hostility—lays out a framework for ending the current regional war, lifting naval blockades, restoring maritime traffic, and negotiating a final agreement within 60 days. This document, now known as the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, marks one of the most surprising diplomatic developments in recent Middle Eastern history.

Below is the full text of the MOU, followed by a structured analysis for readers who want context, implications, and geopolitical significance.

Full Text of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding

Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran

The United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran have jointly agreed in good faith on the following:

1 — Permanent End to Hostilities

The United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran and their allies in the current war, by signing this MOU, declare the immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon, and undertake from now on not to initiate any war or any military operation against each other, and to refrain from the threat or use of force against each other, while ensuring the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Lebanon. The final deal will confirm the permanent termination of the war on all fronts, including in Lebanon, and other provisions of this paragraph.

2 — Mutual Respect for Sovereignty

The United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran undertake to respect each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to refrain from interfering in each other’s internal affairs.

3 — Final Deal Within 60 Days

The United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran commit to negotiating and achieving the final deal within a maximum of 60 days, extendable with mutual consent.

4 — U.S. Naval Blockade Removal

Immediately upon the signing of this MOU, the United States of America will begin the removal of its naval blockade and any disturbances or impediments against the Islamic Republic of Iran, and will fully end the naval blockade within 30 days. During this period, the traffic of vessels will be restored in proportion to pre-war levels. The United States further undertakes to remove its forces from the proximity of Iran within 30 days after the final deal.

5 — Safe Passage Through the Strait of Hormuz

Upon the signing of this MOU, the Islamic Republic of Iran will make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels with no charge for 60 days, from the Persian Gulf to the Sea of Oman and vice versa. Traffic of commercial vessels will immediately start, and—considering the need for removing technical and military obstacles and demining by Iran—will be fully restored within 30 days.

Iran will also conduct dialogue with the Sultanate of Oman to define future administration and maritime services in the Strait of Hormuz, in consultation with other Persian Gulf littoral states, consistent with international law and the sovereign rights of coastal states.

Additional Clauses Reported by Some Outlets

While not included in every transcript, several media sources reported additional provisions:

• Sanctions waivers enabling Iran to export crude oil and access frozen assets during the negotiation period

• A reconstruction framework valued at up to $300 billion

• A reaffirmation that Iran will not pursue nuclear weapons, with uranium stockpile issues to be resolved in the final agreement