US President Donald Trump announced that he signed a deal aimed at ending the three-and-a-half-month-long war with Iran. However, the fact that the text has not been officially shared leaves the scope and durability of the arrangement uncertain.
Although a ceasefire had previously been established between the two sides, the process remained fragile for a long time. During the ceasefire period, there were mutual attacks, and the Strait of Hormuz off the Iranian coast was closed to trade.
Text Not Disclosed, Interpretations Vary
The new arrangement is officially described as a memorandum of understanding. It is conveyed that this framework marks the beginning of talks that could lead to a more lasting peace process.
According to the agreement, the ceasefire is expected to be extended for another 60 days, the Strait of Hormuz reopened to ship traffic, and more detailed negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program to begin. However, since the full content of the text has not been disclosed, it appears that the parties interpret the agreement differently.
Iranian state media claims the arrangement will provide billions of dollars in relief from sanctions. US officials, however, say this depends on the steps Iran will take.
US Vice President J. D. Vance stated that the strait will be reopened without fees as before, while the Iranian side suggests that transit fees may continue. Trump said the text would be made public this week.
Nuclear Issue and Israel’s Cautious Stance
The deal does not fully guarantee that Iran will not acquire nuclear weapons. The text only foresees a new negotiation process between Washington and Tehran on nuclear restrictions.
The previous nuclear deal, canceled during Trump’s first term, limited Iran’s uranium enrichment and included monitoring mechanisms. The current framework brings similar issues back to the table.
Israel remains outside the process and approaches the deal cautiously. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the struggle is not over.
The official signing ceremony of the agreement is planned for Friday in Geneva. Following this ceremony, new talks are expected to begin on Iran’s nuclear program, US sanctions, and other issues.
