US-Iran MOU Scheduled for Signing in Switzerland
A memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the United States and Iran is scheduled to be formally signed on June 19 in Switzerland. The document outlines a framework for a permanent cessation of hostilities, the lifting of sanctions, and the commencement of negotiations for a final agreement on Iran's nuclear program. Multiple sources have reported on the contents of the document, though some details vary between accounts.
The document has not been officially released by either government.
Ceasefire and Non-Aggression
The MOU declares an immediate and permanent end to military operations on all fronts, including Lebanon. Both parties commit to refraining from war or military action against each other and agree to respect the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all states involved, including Lebanon.
Naval Blockade and Maritime Traffic
The United States will begin lifting its naval blockade of Iranian ports immediately upon signing the MOU, with the complete removal to be completed within 30 days. US forces are to be removed from proximity to Iran within 30 days after a final agreement is reached.
Iran will facilitate the safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. For the first 60 days after signing, passage will be permitted at no charge. Full restoration of traffic is expected within 30 days following the removal of mines and other obstacles. After the initial 60-day period, Iran will discuss the future administration and maritime services of the Strait of Hormuz with Oman and other Persian Gulf littoral states, in accordance with international law and the sovereign rights of coastal states.
Economic Rehabilitation and Sanctions
The United States, in coordination with regional partners, will develop a plan for Iran's reconstruction and economic development, with a commitment of at least $300 billion in financing. The plan is to be detailed within 60 days.
All US sanctions against Iran, including those imposed by the United Nations Security Council, the IAEA Board of Governors, and unilateral US sanctions, will be terminated on a schedule to be agreed upon in the final agreement.
Immediately upon signing, the US Treasury Department will issue waivers for the export of Iranian crude oil, petroleum products, and related services. All frozen or restricted Iranian funds and assets will be released and made available as directed by the Central Bank of Iran.
Nuclear Program
Iran reiterates its commitment not to procure or develop nuclear weapons. The disposition of enriched uranium material will be resolved through a mutually agreed mechanism. Sources indicate the minimum methodology under discussion is on-site down-blending under IAEA supervision. The issue of enrichment and other nuclear needs will be addressed in the final agreement.
Pending a final deal, both parties will maintain the status quo: Iran will not alter its current nuclear program, and the United States will not impose new sanctions or deploy additional military forces to the region.
Negotiation Timeline and Final Agreement
The MOU initiates a 60-day period for the negotiation of a final agreement, which can be extended by mutual consent. Negotiations for the final agreement will begin after Iran receives assurances regarding the implementation of specific articles of the MOU, including those covering the naval blockade, maritime traffic, waivers, and frozen assets.
The final agreement is expected to be endorsed by a binding United Nations Security Council resolution.
Status of the Document
Some US officials described the MOU as a "political document" and noted that technical details are still being finalized, meaning the final wording may differ from drafts reported by various news organizations. The semi-official Iranian news agency Tasnim described leaked versions as inaccurate.
Reactions
President Donald Trump, speaking at the G7 summit, stated the US would "bomb the hell" out of Iran if it did not comply with the terms. Iranian parliamentary speaker and negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf expressed distrust of the US, stating that Iran's "finger is on the trigger."
Additional Notes
One source reported that the MOU was signed electronically by President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibakh prior to the scheduled formal ceremony. Another source stated the MOU was signed by President Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, with Pakistan's Prime Minister mediating. These accounts could not be independently verified.
Multiple sources reported that the US and Iran are also developing secret proposals to implement the 14-point agreement, addressing details of Iran's nuclear program and other issues. These proposals have not been signed and were described by a regional official as "working" documents.