The White House believes it is close to reaching a one-page memorandum of understanding with Iran that would end the ongoing war and establish a framework for more detailed nuclear negotiations, according to two U.S. officials and two other sources briefed on the matter. No agreement has been finalized yet, but sources describe this as the closest the two sides have been to a deal since the conflict began. The U.S. expects Iranian responses on several key points within the next 48 hours.
The proposed memo would involve Iran committing to a moratorium on nuclear enrichment, while the U.S. would agree to lift sanctions and release billions in frozen Iranian funds. Both sides would also lift restrictions around transit through the Strait of Hormuz. Many of these terms would be contingent on a final agreement being reached, leaving open the possibility of renewed war or a prolonged limbo where fighting stops but no permanent resolution is achieved.
The White House acknowledges that the Iranian leadership appears divided, which could complicate efforts to forge consensus across different factions. Some U.S. officials remain skeptical that even this initial deal will be successfully executed. The coming days will be critical as both sides assess whether the framework can hold.
If the memorandum is signed, it would mark a significant de-escalation in a conflict that has disrupted global energy markets and regional stability. However, the tentative nature of the terms means that implementation remains uncertain. The broader implications for Middle Eastern geopolitics and international nuclear nonproliferation efforts hang in the balance.
One source cautioned that internal Iranian politics could yet derail the process, noting that previous close calls have collapsed amid factional infighting. The next 48 hours will likely determine whether this breakthrough is real or another false start.