Details have emerged of a new interim agreement between the United States and Iran aimed at extending a fragile ceasefire in the Middle East, with both sides agreeing to a temporary framework while longer-term negotiations continue.
US President Donald Trump said the arrangement makes clear that Iran will not be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon, while also indicating that Tehran could soon resume limited oil exports under the deal.
The memorandum of understanding, which has not yet been officially published, reportedly extends the existing ceasefire by 60 days to allow both sides to negotiate a more permanent settlement.
Under the proposed terms, the United States is expected to lift restrictions on Iranian ports, while Iran would restore maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route that has been heavily disrupted during the conflict.
Iran has long maintained that its nuclear programme is strictly for peaceful purposes, while denying any intention to develop nuclear weapons capabilities.
The agreement has drawn mixed reactions, with some questioning whether it delivers on earlier US objectives, including limits on Iran’s military influence in the region and its missile programme.
Despite the diplomatic breakthrough, uncertainty remains over enforcement, particularly as Israel has distanced itself from the deal and stated it is not bound by the agreement.
Reports also suggest internal political pressure on both sides, with Trump facing criticism from some Republican lawmakers, while Iranian leaders may encounter domestic unrest if economic conditions fail to improve.
Negotiations are expected to continue over the next 60 days, focusing on Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, and broader regional security concerns.
Oil markets reacted quickly to the announcement, with prices falling as traders responded to expectations of improved supply and reduced geopolitical risk.
However, shipping companies remain cautious, with many waiting to see whether stability returns to the Strait of Hormuz before resuming full operations.
