Negotiations to focus on nuclear programme and sanctions relief after preliminary MoU signing, amid fragile regional ceasefire.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said that a new round of negotiations with the United States on a comprehensive final agreement is expected to begin on Friday, following the formal signing of a preliminary memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at ending hostilities.
The announcement comes days after Iran and the US reached an initial framework agreement that includes extending a ceasefire, reopening the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping, and addressing immediate post-conflict issues such as reconstruction and the release of some frozen Iranian assets.
Nuclear Talks Resume Friday:
Araghchi explained that the negotiations have been divided into stages due to the complexities arising from recent conflicts. The first phase, focused on ending the war, lifting the naval blockade, and reopening the strategic waterway, will be formalised with the MoU signing on Friday in Switzerland (or a location to be confirmed).
A subsequent round of talks, expected to last around 60 days, will tackle the more contentious issues of Iran’s nuclear programme-including uranium enrichment levels-and the lifting of US sanctions.
“The new round of negotiations between Iran and the United States to reach a final agreement will probably begin on Friday,” Araghchi said during a briefing with foreign diplomats and in comments broadcast on state television.
Outlook for Final Deal:
The developments occur against the backdrop of a fragile ceasefire across multiple fronts, including Lebanon, where Araghchi has emphasised that any lasting deal must help de-escalate tensions involving regional actors.
US President Donald Trump has described the preliminary agreement positively, stating that the Strait of Hormuz is already partially open and will be fully operational soon. Both sides have described the current understanding as a significant step, though details remain limited and subject to further negotiation.
Analysts note that while the MoU represents progress after months of indirect talks mediated by countries including Oman and others, deep distrust persists. Iran has stressed the need for realistic US proposals, while Washington continues to push for limits on Iran’s nuclear activities.
The coming weeks will be critical as delegations reconvene, with the outcome potentially reshaping the security landscape in the Middle East and global energy markets.