EVIAN-LES-BAINS/DUBAI – UNS : The United States and Iran have signed an interim agreement aimed at ending months of conflict in the Middle East, marking a significant diplomatic breakthrough after a war that began on February 28.
US President Donald Trump and Iranian officials confirmed the signing of the memorandum, which establishes a 60-day negotiation period to work toward a permanent settlement over Iran’s nuclear program and regional security concerns.
Speaking at the G7 summit in France, Trump warned that Washington would resume military action if Iran violated the agreement. However, he also softened his earlier stance on Iran’s missile program, saying it would be “unfair” to deny Tehran ballistic missiles, despite previously pledging to eliminate them.
Under the agreement, Iran will dilute its stockpile of enriched uranium under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). In return, the United States will immediately lift oil sanctions that have severely impacted Iran’s economy.
The deal also outlines plans for a $300 billion reconstruction fund backed by regional countries once a final nuclear agreement is achieved. US officials clarified that Washington will not be required to contribute directly to the fund.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei described the agreement as finalized and ready for implementation, while Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the public would judge the outcome of the accord.
The conflict had disrupted regional stability and led to the closure of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit route. Reopening the waterway is expected to be one of the first practical steps under the agreement.
Despite the breakthrough, the deal has drawn criticism from some US lawmakers. Republican Senator Bill Cassidy argued that Iran’s nuclear ambitions remain intact and called the agreement a major foreign policy mistake.
Meanwhile, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem welcomed the accord, describing it as a “great victory” for Iran and praising Tehran for ensuring that the ceasefire also covered Lebanon.
The interim agreement is intended to create space for detailed negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program and broader regional security issues, with both sides expressing hope that it will pave the way for lasting peace and economic stability in the Middle East.
