US, Iran, mediators set to sign new deal

Kabul Times News | Report: Abdul Haq Hamidi

According to Axios, the United States, Iran and mediators from Qatar and Pakistan plan to hold a virtual meeting on June 14 and sign a memorandum of understanding remotely.

According to the media outlet, the document is expected to extend the ceasefire for another 60 days, pave the way for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and pave the way for talks on Iran’s nuclear program.

A senior Iranian official also told Reuters that the deal would include a temporary lifting of US oil sanctions on Iran and the release of $25 billion in frozen Iranian assets. In return, Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and commit not to develop or acquire nuclear weapons.

According to the report, the agreement would be reached in two stages. In the first phase, the parties will sign a 14-point memorandum of understanding and then negotiate over the next 60 days to reach a final agreement and a complete end to tensions and conflicts.

US President Donald Trump yesterday once again announced that an agreement with Iran is close and announced that the document will be signed on June 14.

However, the Iranian Foreign Ministry has denied this and announced that there are no plans to sign a document or agreement on Sunday.

If the agreement is realized, it will be the first important step in reducing recent tensions between Tehran and Washington and also ensuring the security of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.