WANA (May 27) – An initial, unofficial draft outlining the framework for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Iran and the United States has been released, signaling a potential roadmap toward easing long-standing regional tensions. According to reports, the framework involves major strategic concessions regarding military presence and maritime trade.

 

U.S. to Lift Maritime Blockade and Pivot Forces

As it is reported, under the preliminary framework, the United States has committed to lifting its maritime blockade on Iran. Furthermore, Washington has pledged to withdraw military forces from the areas surrounding Iranian territory.

 

Sources note, however, that a key point of contention remains: whether this withdrawal applies strictly to recently deployed expeditionary forces or extends to permanently stationed personnel at regional bases. This distinction is expected to be a primary focus of upcoming negotiations.

 

Iran to Restore Commercial Shipping Traffic

In return, Tehran has committed to restoring the volume of passing commercial vessels to pre-escalation levels within a one-month timeframe. Notably, the agreement explicitly excludes military vessels from this arrangement.

 

The management and routing of shipping traffic will be overseen by Iran, operating in close cooperation with the Sultanate of Oman.

 

Next Steps and the Islamabad Framework

The draft establishes a strict timeline and verification process before any final agreement is ratified:

 

UN Security Council Endorsement: If a final agreement is reached within a designated 60-day window, the accord will be formalized and endorsed via a binding United Nations Security Council resolution.

 

The “Islamabad Framework”: Officials emphasize that the framework, compiled during talks in Islamabad, is not yet finalized.

 

Strict Verification: Iranian officials have maintained a firm stance that no practical steps will be taken by Tehran without “tangible verification” of U.S. compliance first.