U.S. and Iran Reach Framework for Ceasefire and Strait of Hormuz Reopening

Washington and Tehran announced a framework agreement that includes an immediate end to hostilities on all fronts, a 60-day cease-fire and the lifting of the U.S. naval blockade on Iranian ports, paving the way for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The text of the memorandum of understanding, slated for signing in Geneva on Friday, was not released at the time of reporting.

The agreement does not resolve the status of Iran’s nuclear program, which is expected to be addressed in a later round of talks. Both sides said the cease-fire will allow further negotiations on nuclear issues and the removal of U.S. sanctions.

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council described the deal as an “immediate end to military operations on all fronts,” including the conflict in Lebanon involving Israel and Hezbollah.

U.S. President Donald Trump posted that the United States had authorized the “immediate removal of the United States naval blockade” and that the strait would reopen without tolls.

European leaders welcomed the development. Britain’s prime minister called it a “hugely important step forward” for regional stability, while France, Germany and Italy issued a joint statement urging rapid implementation and offering support for safe navigation and mine-clearance operations. The European Commission president emphasized the need to diversify energy routes to reduce dependence on Hormuz.

Qatar, which helped mediate the talks, said it expects the next round of negotiations to build on the progress.

U.S. and Iranian officials indicated that the agreement will be followed by at least 60 days of detailed talks on how to implement the cease-fire, reopen the strait and eventually limit Iran’s nuclear activities.