Araghchi: first phase of Iran-US deal focuses on ending war

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi announced that the first phase of a memorandum of understanding between Iran and the United States has been finalized following months of negotiations, with its primary focus on ending the conflict and resolving issues concerning the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking at a gathering of ambassadors, chargés d’affaires, and representatives of foreign and international missions in Tehran on Tuesday, Araghchi said that the complexity of achieving a comprehensive agreement increased after the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran, leading both sides to divide the negotiation process into two distinct stages.

According to the foreign minister, a new round of talks will begin on the day the memorandum is formally signed. The second phase of negotiations is expected to continue for 60 days, during which both parties will work toward a final agreement addressing Iran’s nuclear program and the removal of sanctions.

Araghchi noted that the first phase concluded after approximately three months of discussions that took place alongside the conflict and continued through June 15.

He added that while the memorandum is scheduled to enter into force on June 19, the cessation of hostilities was announced earlier this week. He described the immediate and lasting halt to military operations across all fronts as the most significant element of the understanding.

The foreign minister stressed that developments in Lebanon were closely linked to the broader conflict and said Tehran viewed an end to hostilities there as an essential component of a wider peace arrangement.

He added that any future Israeli military action or continued military presence in Lebanese territory would be considered a violation of the memorandum.

Araghchi also thanked Qatar and Pakistan for their diplomatic efforts and support in facilitating the negotiations and helping advance the understanding between the parties.