17:18 06-05-2026

US-Iran Memo Could Open Path to Wider Nuclear Deal

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Axios says Washington and Tehran may sign a memo to pause conflict, curb Iran uranium enrichment, ease US sanctions and open nuclear talks.

Washington and Tehran may soon sign a one-page memorandum of understanding aimed at locking in an end to the conflict in the Middle East and setting the terms for future talks on Iran’s nuclear program. Axios reported the development, citing American officials and sources familiar with the consultations.

According to the report, US negotiators expect Tehran to respond to the key provisions of the document within the next 48 hours. Sources cited by the outlet said the two sides are closer to a peace agreement than at any previous stage.

The draft memorandum reportedly includes a halt to uranium enrichment by Iran, a gradual easing of US sanctions and the unfreezing of some Iranian assets. Other possible provisions include a phased lifting of restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and a reduction of military tensions across the region.

Axios writes that, once the memorandum is signed, a 30-day negotiation period is expected to begin. During that stage, the parties would work on a more detailed agreement, with talks to be held in Geneva or Islamabad. The two sides may also start easing mutual restrictions step by step during this period.

A separate point of discussion is the duration of Iran’s moratorium on uranium enrichment. At this stage, the proposed timeframe is between 12 and 15 years. Tehran had previously suggested a five-year limit, while the White House pushed for a 20-year term. The draft also refers to expanded inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency, including the possibility of surprise checks, as well as commitments from Iran not to develop nuclear weapons.

For its part, the United States may begin gradually softening the sanctions regime and unlocking substantial volumes of Iranian funds and assets. Another option under discussion is the removal of highly enriched uranium from Iranian territory.

The article notes that the US side recognizes a lack of consensus within Iran’s leadership. That factor could complicate the path toward a final agreement.

Earlier, on the evening of May 5, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the military operation «Epic Fury» against Iran had ended. He added that America would now shift to «Project Freedom», under which US forces assist vessels passing through the blocked Strait of Hormuz. Shortly afterward, US President Donald Trump announced a pause in «Project Freedom», linking the decision to progress in talks with Iran. The suspension is expected to give both sides time to settle the key issues.