WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to end hostilities with Iran, the White House announced on Tuesday. While the agreement was originally scheduled to be signed in person in Switzerland on the 19th, President Trump expedited the timeline, allowing Iran to resume crude oil exports immediately for a 60-day period.
However, the 14-article MOU, recently disclosed by the U.S. government, has triggered significant debate. A primary point of contention is the status of the Strait of Hormuz. Article 5 of the MOU guarantees free, two-way passage for commercial vessels, but explicitly limits "toll-free" transit to only 60 days. Furthermore, the inclusion of a clause regarding future dialogue with nations like Oman to regulate "maritime services" has left the door open for Iran to impose transit fees.
This contradicts claims made by President Trump, who had previously assured that there would be no tolls. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, effectively formalized the intent to charge, stating in a state TV interview, "It is only natural that we will collect fees for the services we provide."
The deal also faces criticism for allegedly passing the burden of "war reparations" onto other countries and corporations. Article 6 outlines a plan to collaborate with regional partners to mobilize at least $300 billion for Iran's reconstruction and economic development. Critics argue that instead of the U.S. directly funding the effort, the plan essentially forces third-party international capital to cover the war reparations demanded by Iran.
Beyond these issues, the MOU mandates the completion of a final agreement within 60 days, the on-site dilution of Iran’s highly enriched uranium under IAEA supervision, and a promise of comprehensive sanctions relief.
A senior U.S. official stated that sanctions would be eased upon reaching a final settlement but maintained pressure by hinting that military action could be resumed if the negotiations fail.
[Copyright (c) Global Economic Times. All Rights Reserved.]
