VERSAILLES, France — U.S. President Donald Trump signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Iran at the Palace of Versailles on June 17, marking the formal launch of a diplomatic framework intended to reduce tensions between Washington and Tehran and open negotiations on a broader agreement, according to the White House and officials involved in the talks.
The signing took place during a dinner attended by French President Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of international meetings in France, the White House said. Trump later confirmed the action to reporters, saying, “It’s signed. Signed in Versailles. Just signed it,” according to media reports.
The memorandum outlines a framework for further negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program, regional security issues and economic sanctions. Officials from the United States, Iran, Qatar and Pakistan have described the document as an interim arrangement rather than a final settlement.
According to officials cited by multiple news organizations, the agreement includes provisions aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz and establishing a period for negotiations toward a more comprehensive accord. Both sides are expected to continue technical discussions in Switzerland.
French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the signing, calling it “an important step in the right direction,” according to statements reported by several media outlets.
The memorandum emerged after weeks of heightened tensions involving Iran, the United States and regional actors. While U.S. officials have portrayed the agreement as a diplomatic breakthrough, critics in the United States and elsewhere have questioned aspects of the arrangement and the concessions involved. Details of several provisions remain the subject of public debate, and some elements have not been independently verified.
Iranian officials have said the memorandum creates a pathway for continued dialogue, while U.S. Vice President JD Vance said Washington is prepared to pursue a broader transformation in relations if negotiations produce lasting commitments regarding Iran’s nuclear activities.
On Monday, officials involved in the process said lower-level technical talks were continuing in Switzerland under Qatari and Pakistani mediation. Mediators described the initial discussions as showing “encouraging progress,” though significant differences remain on nuclear issues, sanctions and regional security matters.
The memorandum remains in effect as negotiations continue, and officials from both sides have indicated that further talks are expected in the coming weeks.
