Iran says initial deal reached as final peace talks enters next phase

Iranian foreign minister says final negotiations will focus on nuclear issues and sanctions relief: Strait of Hormuz shipping arrangements included in preliminary agreement: Fourteen-point Islamabad Memorandum outlines ceasefire and mutual respect commitments.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has announced that a preliminary agreement has been reached with the United States, paving the way for final negotiations on Tehran’s nuclear programme and the removal of sanctions.

According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, speaking on Thursday, Araghchi said talks aimed at securing a final agreement would continue for up to 60 days.

He added that the next phase of negotiations would focus on resolving issues related to Iran’s nuclear activities and the lifting of economic sanctions.

Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said an understanding had been reached regarding procedures for the restoration of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz for a specified period.

However, he said he could not yet confirm reports regarding talks scheduled for Friday, adding that a final decision on the meeting was expected within hours.

Baghaei stated that preparations for the participation of negotiating teams at the Bergenstock resort in central Switzerland were proceeding according to schedule.

He also said that Iran and Oman would jointly determine future administrative arrangements concerning the Strait of Hormuz.

Separately, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Iran would charge fees to vessels passing through the strategic waterway.

Meanwhile, details of the 14-point memorandum of understanding have been released under the title “Islamabad Memorandum”.

According to US officials, the document commits both countries to the immediate and permanent cessation of military operations on all fronts, including Lebanon.

The memorandum also states that the United States and Iran will respect each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, forming the basis for the next stage of diplomatic engagement between the two countries.