US-Iran peace deal: Trump signs MoU at Versailles, confirms White House; Pakistan says agreement takes effect
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (local time) signed the US-Iran memorandum of understanding (MoU) at Versailles, France, while attending a dinner hosted by French
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (local time) signed the US-Iran memorandum of understanding (MoU) at Versailles, France, while attending a dinner hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron for leaders of the Group of Seven (G7). According to the White House, the agreement has also been signed by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and came days after Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and US Vice President JD Vance signed it electronically on 14 June. The BBC, citing the White House, reported that the agreement is now in effect and has commenced the 60-day extendable period for Washington and Tehran to reach a more final deal. Quick answers to key questions • 5 QUESTIONS 1 What key components are included in the US-Iran memorandum of understanding (MoU)? ⌵ The US-Iran MoU includes commitments such as Iran's pledge not to pursue nuclear weapons, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the lifting of US sanctions, and a ceasefire on all fronts including Lebanon. 2 Why did Trump sign the MoU with Iran at Versailles? ⌵ Trump signed the MoU with Iran at Versailles as part of a diplomatic effort to end the ongoing conflict, aiming to prevent an economic catastrophe and ensure a peaceful resolution. 3 How does the MoU impact the Strait of Hormuz's reopening?
⌵ The MoU stipulates that the Islamic Republic of Iran will immediately reopen the Strait of Hormuz and that the United States will lift its naval blockade, allowing for toll-free traffic for a period of 60 days. 4 What consequences did Trump warn Iran of if they violate the MoU? ⌵ Trump warned Iran that if they fail to honor the MoU, the United States would resume military action, threatening to 'bomb the hell out of them' as necessary. 5 Should the US and Iran reach a final agreement within the 60-day window? ⌵ Yes, the MoU establishes a 60-day period for the US and Iran to negotiate a final agreement, which can be extended upon mutual consent. Pakistan PM says agreement takes effect 'immediately' On Thursday (local time), Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that the US-Iran MoU has come into effect 'immediately.' In a post on X, Sharif wrote, "I am honoured to announce that the historic ‘Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding’ has been electronically signed today between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Memorandum has been signed by the honourable Presidents of both countries and also endorsed by me as the mediator." He added, "Islamabad MoU shall enter into force with immediate effect and as a first step, the Islamic Republic of Iran will instantly reopen the Strait of Hormuz and the United States of America will immediately lift the naval blockade." Sharif hailed the US President and noted that “his steadfast commitment to diplomacy and preference for peaceful resolution have once again helped end a conflict that could have led to devastating consequences for the region and beyond.” As Trump and Pezeshkian signed the US-Iran agreement to end the war, it remains unclear if the official signing ceremony, scheduled to take place in Switzerland on Friday, will continue.
