May 28, 2026 – The United States and Iran have reached a tentative 60-day Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to extend their regional ceasefire to 60 days and open negotiations regarding Tehran’s nuclear program. The draft agreement is currently awaiting final approval from US President Donald Trump, who has requested a few days to review the terms.
This dramatic twist to ongoing tensions got slight relief with this pivotal agreement which is now pending final approval from President Donald Trump, who may hold the key to regional peace.
The draft, first revealed by Axios and later confirmed by the White House, aims to stabilize a volatile Middle East following a flurry of clashes among the U.S., Iran, and Israel.
The Highlights of the MoU Include:
A Renewed 60-Day Ceasefire: This extension covers all fronts, including military operations in Lebanon, and can be renewed with mutual consent.
Opening the Crucial Strait of Hormuz: Iran has promised to clear mines from this key global oil route within 30 days, ensuring unhindered commercial traffic- no tolls attached.
Nuclear Commitments: Iran will not pursue nuclear weapons and will work on curbing its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, with detailed talks set for the 60-day period.
Sanctions Relief on the Table: The U.S. will consider lifting certain sanctions and unfreezing Iranian assets as part of broader negotiations.
White House sources confirm the framework’s existence, though Trump has yet to officially endorse it. The president previously described the deal as “largely negotiated” but urged caution, emphasizing that time favors the U.S.
As both sides painstakingly navigate this complex diplomatic landscape, the situation remains precarious. Regional tensions are heightened by recent U.S. “self-defense” strikes against Iranian targets.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has voiced alarm over the proposed deal, particularly regarding Lebanon, signaling potential rifts in alliances.
However, the real challenge lies ahead. Iran’s commitment to clear mines in the Strait of Hormuz in just 30 days could prove overly ambitious, given the serious logistical and operational hurdles they face.
This development could reshape global oil markets and the dynamics of Middle East stability. With Trump deliberating on the MoU and discussions ongoing, eyes are watching closely for the next move in this high-stakes game. Earlier Trump warned that Iran is “negotiating on fumes” and declared: “Maybe we have to go back and finish it, maybe we don’t”, referring to potential further military action against Iran’s atomic facilities.
Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding story!
Sources: reuters.com; strausscenter.org; washingtonpost.com; justsecurity.org; aljazeera.com
