24/05/2026
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24/05/2026
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Washington / Tehran, May 24: The United States and Iran are reportedly considering a draft 60-day memorandum of understanding aimed at easing tensions in the Gulf, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and reviving stalled nuclear negotiations, according to a report by Axios citing senior U.S. officials and sources familiar with the proposal.
Under the proposed framework, Iran would take initial steps to ensure safe maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz, including clearing any naval mines and allowing commercial shipping lanes to reopen. In return, the United States would lift restrictions affecting Iranian port access and issue limited sanctions waivers tied to verified Iranian compliance.
The draft proposal outlines a “relief for performance” approach, meaning any easing of sanctions would be directly linked to Iran’s measurable actions on the ground. These steps would reportedly include commitments by Tehran not to pursue nuclear weapons and to engage in negotiations over uranium enrichment limits, as well as the removal or control of its stockpile of highly enriched uranium.
According to the report, the United States would also consider broader sanctions relief and the unfreezing of Iranian assets during the 60 days, but only as part of a final agreement that is fully verified and implemented.
The draft further envisions a continued U.S. military presence in the region during the interim phase to maintain security stability, with a potential withdrawal contingent on a final deal being reached.
In addition to the nuclear and sanctions-related provisions, the proposal reportedly includes a wider regional de-escalation component, including efforts to end hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, signaling a broader diplomatic push beyond the immediate U.S.–Iran nuclear issue.
The discussions remain at a draft stage and have not yet been formally accepted by either side, the report added.
