WASHINGTON — The Trump administration on Thursday released the text of a memorandum of understanding that it said had formed the basis of an interim agreement with Iran, publishing details of a framework that called for a halt to hostilities, negotiations over a broader accord and phased steps on sanctions and maritime security before the agreement later unraveled.
According to the document, the United States and Iran committed to an immediate end to military operations, pledged to respect each other's sovereignty and agreed to pursue negotiations on a final agreement within 60 days, with the possibility of extending the talks by mutual consent. The memorandum also outlined U.S. commitments to begin lifting a naval blockade, issue sanctions waivers for Iranian oil exports during the interim period and establish a mechanism to monitor implementation.
The administration said publication of the text was intended to clarify the terms that officials argue Iran later violated. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said this week that Tehran breached the understanding by targeting commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, an allegation that U.S. officials have cited as the reason for renewed military action and the suspension of key provisions of the agreement.
Iran has continued contacts with the United States despite the renewed conflict, according to the White House, which has said Tehran remains interested in reaching a broader agreement. Iranian officials have disputed U.S. characterizations of recent events while maintaining that diplomatic channels remain open.
The memorandum states that both governments intended to negotiate a comprehensive settlement covering Iran's nuclear program and other outstanding issues after implementation of the initial measures. It also envisioned the eventual endorsement of a final agreement through a binding United Nations Security Council resolution.
The release comes days after President Donald Trump formally notified Congress that hostilities with Iran had resumed, arguing that Tehran's alleged violations of the memorandum ended the ceasefire framework established in June. Lawmakers from both parties have continued to debate the administration's legal justification for ongoing military operations under the War Powers Act.
As of Thursday, fighting between U.S. and Iranian forces had continued while diplomatic contacts remained active, according to White House officials, with no announcement of a new ceasefire or replacement agreement.
