US and Iran Poised to Sign Slim Deal to End War and Restart Nuclear Talks

The United States and Iran are alarmingly close to a minimalist one-page agreement aimed at ending the current war and launching nuclear negotiations, Axios reports, citing multiple US officials and other sources. This tentative deal represents the closest the two adversaries have come to peace since hostilities erupted.

The proposed 14-point memorandum of understanding would declare a ceasefire and initiate a 30-day window for hammering out a more comprehensive treaty. Key issues on the table include reopening the Strait of Hormuz—currently blockaded by the US and restricted by Iran—curbing Iran’s nuclear program, and lifting US sanctions that have devastated the Iranian economy.

According to Axios, Iran would agree to a moratorium on uranium enrichment, potentially lasting 12 to 15 years, a middle ground between Iran’s initial offer of five years and the US demand for 20. Crucially, Tehran might also consent to remove its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, a non-negotiable US demand until now.

The draft deal further demands Iran renounce nuclear weapons ambitions, accept intensified UN inspections including surprise checks, and possibly halt activities at underground facilities. In return, Washington would gradually lift sanctions and release billions in frozen Iranian assets.

Despite these breakthroughs, US officials remain wary. The White House acknowledges internal divisions within Iran’s leadership that could derail consensus. Skepticism persists about whether even this interim deal will survive the political minefields on both sides.

President Donald Trump’s recent decision to pause a military operation in the Strait of Hormuz—dubbed Project Freedom—was reportedly influenced by progress in these talks. However, US officials warn that the naval blockade could be reinstated or military action resumed swiftly if negotiations collapse.

This fragile diplomatic dance unfolds against a backdrop of deep mistrust. The US imposed its blockade in April after prior talks failed, prompting Iran to restrict transit through the strait in retaliation. The looming agreement, if it holds, would mark a rare de-escalation in a conflict marked by military escalation, economic warfare, and diplomatic sabotage.

For now, the world watches as Tehran and Washington inch toward a deal that could halt a devastating war, revive nuclear diplomacy, and relieve economic suffering. But with so much at stake and so little trust, the path ahead remains perilous.