Iranian has media published details of a 14-point draft memorandum of understanding between Tehran and Washington, revealing significant differences from provisions previously reported by Axios regarding sanctions relief, frozen Iranian assets, reconstruction commitments and the scope of future negotiations.
According to Iranian semi-official news agency Mehr, the draft contains 14 points and remains subject to final review and approval by the relevant Iranian authorities.
The two reported versions share several key elements, but significant differences emerge in how those objectives would be implemented.
Ceasefire terms, Hormuz reopening differ
Axios reported a 60-day “extension” of the existing ceasefire, including in Lebanon, while nuclear negotiations continue.
The draft published by Mehr instead calls for an “immediate and permanent” cessation of hostilities on all fronts, including Lebanon, followed by 60 days of negotiations towards a final nuclear agreement.
The two accounts also differ on the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Axios reported an “immediate” reopening of the strategic waterway without tolls and restoration of normal shipping volumes.
The Iranian-reported draft stipulates reopening the strait within 30 days and in coordination with Iran.
Sanctions relief, frozen assets and reconstructıon
Sanctions relief represents another major point of divergence.
According to Axios, US sanctions relief would be linked to Iranian compliance with the agreement.
The draft published by Mehr goes significantly further, calling for the suspension of sanctions on Iranian oil, petrochemical products and derivatives, full access to Iran’s financial resources, and the eventual lifting of all primary and secondary US sanctions, as well as related measures imposed through the UN Security Council and the International Atomic Energy Agency’s Board of Governors.
The treatment of frozen Iranian assets also differs substantially.
Axios reported that Iran could gain access “to some” frozen funds for humanitarian purchases through a mechanism discussed with Qatar.
By contrast, the draft published by Mehr calls for the release of $24 billion in frozen Iranian assets during the 60-day negotiating period, with half of the funds to be made available before final negotiations begin.
Another major difference concerns reconstruction and post-war guarantees.
While the Axios report did not refer to reconstruction assistance, the draft published by Mehr states that the US and its allies would be required to present plans for rebuilding Iran worth at least $300 billion.
Related
