The US and Iranian versions of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at ending months of war in the Middle East have revealed broad convergence on the deal's core provisions, a review of both texts shows, despite differences in political emphasis, legal detail, and regional framing.
The documents drew renewed attention after Tehran said early on Thursday that the agreement had become fully official following its signing by the presidents of both countries.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said some provisions had already begun to be implemented, including measures related to easing the US naval blockade, according to remarks carried by Iran's semi-official Mehr News Agency.
Shared diplomatic framework
Despite differences in wording, the two versions outline a largely similar diplomatic framework.
Clause 1 in both texts calls for an immediate and permanent halt to military operations on all fronts, including Lebanon, while committing Iran, the United States, and their allies to refrain from future threats or use of force.
Both versions also include commitments to respect sovereignty and negotiate a final agreement within 60 days.
The two texts further align on major elements, including lifting the US naval blockade, restoring maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, easing sanctions on Iran, releasing frozen Iranian assets, and establishing an implementation monitoring mechanism.
Both versions also state that the final agreement would eventually be endorsed through a binding UN Security Council resolution and mention a 300-billion-dollar reconstruction and economic development programme for Iran.
Differing weights on Lebanon
Lebanon appears in both versions, but with noticeably different emphasis.
The US text states that military operations would end on all fronts, including in Lebanon.
The Iranian version goes further, explicitly stating that the parties would guarantee Lebanon’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
On sanctions, Clause 7 in both versions states that the US will work to end sanctions against Iran.
However, the Iranian version places stronger emphasis on sanctions relief, describing it as a fundamental part of the negotiations linked to a mutually agreed timetable.
Both texts say Washington would issue waivers allowing exports of Iranian crude oil and related banking services.
Hormuz and nuclear file operations
Both say the US would begin lifting the naval blockade immediately and complete the process within 30 days, while Iran would facilitate commercial passage through the Gulf.
The Iranian version adds that the passage would remain free of charge for 60 days and refers to consultations with Oman regarding the future administration of the Strait of Hormuz.
On the nuclear issue, addressed under Clause 8, both texts say Iran would reaffirm that it will not produce or acquire nuclear weapons.
