Washington, United States. Al Arabiya has published what it described as a draft memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran setting out a 14-point framework for an immediate end to hostilities and a broader geopolitical and economic reset. The reported draft includes provisions on a ceasefire, sanctions relief, nuclear issues, maritime traffic and reconstruction funding.
Ceasefire and transition period
The draft calls for an immediate and permanent ceasefire across all fronts, including Lebanon. It also includes commitments to respect sovereignty and territorial integrity and to avoid any use of force or hostile action.
The text provides for a 60-day transitional period to negotiate and finalise a comprehensive agreement, with the possibility of an extension by mutual consent.
Maritime access and military steps
According to the draft, the United States would lift a naval blockade and remove restrictions affecting Iran. It also envisages the restoration of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz within 30 days.
The document refers to a phased withdrawal of US forces from surrounding areas following a final agreement.
In parallel, Iran would take steps to restore commercial shipping routes between the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman to pre-conflict levels. These steps would include measures to address technical obstacles and mine clearance.
Economic development and sanctions relief
The draft envisages a large-scale reconstruction and economic development plan for Iran to be developed with regional partners. It sets funding at at least $300 billion, with implementation details to be agreed within 60 days.
It also outlines sanctions relief through the termination of existing US and international restrictions on Iran under a timetable linked to the final agreement. The measures cited include UN restrictions, International Atomic Energy Agency decisions and unilateral US sanctions.
The document further provides for US Treasury waivers to allow Iranian exports of crude oil, petrochemicals and related services, including banking, insurance and transport.
Nuclear provisions
On nuclear issues, the draft states that Iran reiterates its position that it will not develop nuclear weapons. It adds that both sides agree the handling of enriched nuclear material and broader programme issues would be determined in the final deal.
Until such an agreement is reached, the text maintains a status quo arrangement under which Iran would not alter its nuclear programme and the United States would refrain from imposing new sanctions or expanding its military presence in the region.
