The United States and Iran are currently negotiating a memorandum of understanding aimed at transforming a recent ceasefire into a more durable peace arrangement following weeks of conflict.While both sides suggest progress has been made, major disagreements remain unresolved, and no final agreement is expected immediately.The proposed memorandum is intended as a roadmap for future negotiations covering several critical and sensitive issues.One of the central topics is the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway essential for global energy shipping.

Under early drafts, commercial shipping would gradually return to pre-conflict levels over a period of around 30 days, although Iran and the United States differ on who maintains control and oversight of the strait.The U.S.has indicated that sanctions relief and asset unfreezing would be tied to compliance steps, while Iran insists on immediate easing of restrictions and recognition of its authority over regional maritime coordination.Another key issue is Iran’s nuclear program.

Discussions reportedly include commitments from Iran not to pursue nuclear weapons, a pause in uranium enrichment, and potential future negotiations over highly enriched uranium stockpiles.

However, Iranian officials emphasize that nuclear concessions would only be addressed after a broader agreement is signed, and deny any immediate commitments on dismantling capabilities.

Economic concerns are also central, particularly Iran’s demand for the release of billions in frozen assets abroad and the lifting of sweeping international sanctions that have severely impacted its economy.

The United States has suggested that sanctions relief and asset access would be phased and contingent on progress in other areas, including maritime security arrangements.

Additional unresolved issues include Iran’s ballistic missile program and regional conflicts involving Iran-aligned groups, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon.Both sides have expressed cautious optimism, but significant diplomatic gaps remain before any comprehensive settlement can be reached.