The United States and Iran are nearing a preliminary 14-point memorandum of understanding aimed at ending the ongoing conflict and launching broader nuclear negotiations, according to a report by Axios.
Citing American officials and sources familiar with the talks, the report described the development as the most significant diplomatic progress since the outbreak of hostilities, though a final agreement remains uncertain.
The proposed framework is a one-page document designed to trigger an immediate ceasefire and open a 30-day window for negotiations on a comprehensive settlement.
Under the draft terms, Iran would agree to a temporary pause in nuclear enrichment, while the United States would begin easing sanctions and unfreezing billions of dollars in Iranian assets. Both sides would also work to reduce tensions and ease transit constraints in the Strait of Hormuz.
The report noted that many provisions are conditional on further negotiations, leaving the process vulnerable to renewed conflict or prolonged uncertainty.
US President Donald Trump’s recent decision to scale back military activity in the Strait of Hormuz was reportedly influenced by these diplomatic advances.
The negotiations are being led by US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who are engaging Tehran through direct and indirect channels.
If formalised, the memorandum would declare an end to the war and shift technical discussions to locations such as Islamabad or Geneva.
A key sticking point remains the duration of Iran’s proposed moratorium on uranium enrichment. While Washington is pushing for a period of up to 20 years, Tehran has suggested five years, with a potential compromise emerging between 12 and 15 years.
Also read: Will only accept fair, comprehensive deal: Iranian FM to China
The United States is also seeking provisions to extend the moratorium in case of violations. After the agreed period, Iran may be allowed to resume limited enrichment to 3.67 per cent.
Tehran would further be required to commit against pursuing nuclear weapons, alongside stricter monitoring mechanisms, including snap inspections by international observers.
Another sensitive proposal involves removing Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium, potentially through transfer to the United States.
Despite the apparent progress, the White House remains cautious, with officials suggesting divisions within Iran’s leadership could complicate consensus.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio underscored the complexities of the process, saying, “We don't have to have the actual agreement written in one day.”
He added that any deal must clearly define the scope of negotiations and the concessions each side is willing to make, while expressing scepticism about elements within the Iranian leadership.
The next 48 hours are seen as critical, as Washington awaits Tehran’s response on key issues. While the proposed memorandum marks a fragile yet significant step towards de-escalation, the risk of breakdown remains high.
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