US and Iran have digitally signed a framework agreement aimed at ending months of conflict, paving the way for negotiations on a comprehensive long-term settlement
The United States and Iran have taken a major step towards ending months of conflict in the Middle East after both countries digitally signed a peace framework agreement, setting the stage for a broader and more comprehensive settlement in the coming weeks.
US President Donald Trump confirmed the development on Wednesday, saying the agreement had been formally signed by both sides.
“It’s signed,” Trump told reporters while departing from Versailles. “I signed it in Versailles. Just signed it.”
Iran also confirmed the signing of the agreement, though Tehran stressed that the real challenge now lies in implementing the commitments outlined in the memorandum.
According to Iranian officials, the document establishes a framework for de-escalation and provides a 60-day window during which both countries will negotiate the final details of a permanent agreement.
“The text of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding was finalised with the signatures of the presidents. Now it is time to test the implementation of the agreement,” Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said, according to state media.
Strait of Hormuz set to reopen
One of the most significant outcomes of the agreement is the planned reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes.
The narrow waterway handles nearly 20 per cent of global crude oil shipments and has remained at the centre of international concern throughout the conflict due to disruptions in maritime trade and energy supplies.
The reopening is expected to ease pressure on global energy markets, improve supply chain stability and reduce concerns over future disruptions in oil transportation.
Sanctions relief and reconstruction support
The agreement also includes provisions aimed at easing economic pressure on Iran.
Under the framework, the United States is expected to waive certain oil-related sanctions that have significantly impacted Iran’s economy in recent years.
Additionally, the deal creates a pathway for the release of a proposed USD 300 billion reconstruction fund backed by regional partners. The funding, however, is expected to become available only after both sides conclude a final and comprehensive agreement.
Nuclear issue remains unresolved
Despite progress on several fronts, Iran’s nuclear programme remains one of the most sensitive and unresolved aspects of the negotiations.
According to the framework agreement, Iran has agreed to dilute portions of its enriched uranium stockpile. The process could involve down-blending the material under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
However, questions remain regarding the scale, timeline and verification mechanisms associated with the nuclear commitments.
US officials have indicated that Washington remains cautious and will closely monitor Iran’s actions before moving towards broader sanctions relief or additional concessions.
Future talks uncertain
Before the digital signing of the agreement, a high-level meeting involving US Vice President JD Vance and Iranian negotiator Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf was expected to take place in Switzerland later this week.
The meeting had been viewed as a critical step towards launching detailed negotiations on nuclear issues and long-term security arrangements.
However, following the signing of the framework agreement, Iranian officials suggested that plans for the meeting are now under review.
“The Friday meeting was confirmed until a few hours ago, but when it was decided that the presidents of the two sides would sign the agreement, consideration of the meeting was paused for now,” Baqaei said.
Reports citing American officials suggest that Washington still harbours concerns regarding Tehran’s long-term intentions and expects clarity within days or weeks regarding Iran’s commitment to implementing the agreement.
A crucial test ahead
While the signing marks a significant diplomatic breakthrough after months of tensions and military confrontation, officials on both sides acknowledge that the agreement represents only the beginning of a longer process.
The coming weeks will focus on implementation, confidence-building measures and negotiations over unresolved issues, particularly Iran’s nuclear programme and broader regional security arrangements.
If successfully implemented, the agreement could not only end one of the most consequential conflicts in the Middle East in recent years but also restore stability to global energy markets and international trade routes.
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