The White House is nearing a one-page memorandum of understanding with Iran to end the war and launch broader nuclear talks, with U.S. officials expecting responses from Tehran within 48 hours and calling this the closest point to a breakthrough so far.
The framework includes a temporary halt to Iran’s nuclear enrichment, phased sanctions relief, release of frozen funds, and easing restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, with key provisions tied to a final agreement and the risk of renewed conflict if talks collapse.
Negotiated by envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, the draft would open a 30-day negotiating window with gradual rollback of shipping restrictions and the U.S. blockade. Disputes remain over enrichment limits, enforcement, and inspections, alongside provisions requiring Iran to forgo nuclear weapons and accept expanded monitoring.
On Tuesday evening, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing. U.S. officials said China is being looked to for pressure on Tehran regarding the strait. President Trump also announced a temporary pause on “Project Freedom” as negotiations approach a potential final agreement.
