United States And Iran Digitally Sign Memorandum To End War, Reopen Strait Of Hormuz
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United States And Iran Digitally Sign Memorandum To End War, Reopen Strait Of Hormuz

18 June, 2026.USA.41 sources

Key Takeaways

  • 14-point MOU to end the war with Iran and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Signatures were digital, with leaders signing remotely.
  • The text outlines easing certain Iran sanctions and provisions for future talks on nuclear issues.

MOU Signed, War Paused

The United States and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding to end the war, with CBS News reporting that the U.S. and Iran had signed the memorandum remotely and that it was now "in effect."

NBC News said President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian both digitally signed the memorandum of understanding on Wednesday while Trump was at dinner at the Palace of Versailles with French President Emmanuel Macron.

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Al JazeeraAl Jazeera

NBC News reported that the interim agreement declares an intent to bring about an “immediate and permanent termination of military operations” in the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran, which began Feb. 28.

NBC News also said the MOU stipulates that the Strait of Hormuz will reopen, with Iran agreeing to allow “safe passage of commercial vessels with no charge for 60 days only,” followed by negotiations with Oman to define the future administration of the trade route.

The BBC reported that US Vice-President JD Vance said the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the US and Iran was "about a page and a half" and a "very general" document.

Threats, Inspections, and Timing

CBS News quoted President Trump warning that the U.S. could resume bombing Iran "if they don't behave," while also emphasizing that the agreement is "not final."

The BBC reported that Vance told NBC News that nuclear inspectors would "absolutely" be allowed back into Iran as part of the deal.

Image from Al Jazeera
Al JazeeraAl Jazeera

NBC News said the U.S. is expected to lift sanctions on Iran and unfreeze funds and assets linked to the country’s regime under the 14-point memorandum of understanding.

NBC News also reported that both sides will commit to further talks toward a more substantive “final deal” within 60 days, “extendable with mutual consent.”

The BBC said Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi confirmed a new round of negotiations in Switzerland on the same day the deal is formally inked in Geneva.

Oil, Sanctions Relief, and Stakes

NBC News said the U.S. will “terminate all types of sanctions,” will “make fully available for use the frozen or restricted funds and assets,” and will begin the removal of its naval blockade of Iran’s ports.

The Guardian reported that the U.S. will allow Iran to immediately start selling oil and fuel again as part of the deal to end the war, citing sources familiar with the matter.

NBC News said one point in the memorandum that could draw criticism is a commitment for the U.S. to work with regional partners to develop a plan for at least $300 billion to be distributed to Iran for “reconstruction and economic development.”

The Guardian said the deal includes the free flow of navigation in the strait of Hormuz and not obtaining an nuclear weapon, and noted that the move is likely to be controversial with many politicians and lawmakers opposed to offering Iran financial relief.

In the BBC account, Vance said “Most importantly, they're going to have a verifiable commitment to not building a nuclear weapon,” framing the nuclear commitment as a core part of the agreement.

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