US, Iran inch closer to ‘end the war’: 14-point memorandum draft signals substantive diplomatic progress

In what could mark a decisive turn in a prolonged and volatile standoff, the United States and Iran are reportedly nearing a preliminary agreement built around a 14-point memorandum aimed at halting hostilities and opening the door to comprehensive nuclear negotiations. The proposed framework, described as the most substantive diplomatic progress since the conflict escalated, seeks to establish an immediate ceasefire while setting strict timelines for a broader settlement, though significant gaps and mistrust remain.

According to an Axios report citing senior American officials and sources familiar with the talks, the draft memorandum is designed as a short, one-page understanding that would trigger a 30-day negotiation window to resolve deeper disputes. While the outline reflects cautious optimism, officials acknowledge that the path ahead remains uncertain and vulnerable to collapse.

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Ceasefire first, negotiations next

At the heart of the proposed deal is an immediate cessation of hostilities, coupled with a structured diplomatic push to resolve longstanding nuclear tensions. The arrangement would temporarily pause Iran’s nuclear enrichment activities while granting limited economic relief from US sanctions.

Washington’s recent decision under President Donald Trump to scale back military activity in the Strait of Hormuz is believed to be directly linked to these diplomatic advances, signalling a willingness to de-escalate in parallel with negotiations.

Talks are being led by US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who are engaging Tehran through a mix of direct and backchannel communications.

What the 14-Point Memorandum Proposes

• An immediate ceasefire between the United States and Iran
• Launch of a 30-day intensive negotiation period
• Temporary halt to Iran’s uranium enrichment programme
• Gradual lifting of US sanctions on Iran
• Unfreezing of billions in Iranian financial assets
• Measures to ease tensions in the Strait of Hormuz
• Commitment to shift formal technical talks to Islamabad or Geneva
• Agreement on a long-term moratorium on uranium enrichment (duration under negotiation)
• Provision to extend the moratorium if violations occur
• Allowance for limited enrichment up to 3.67% after the moratorium period
• Binding assurance from Iran not to pursue nuclear weapons
• Ban on the operation of underground nuclear facilities
• Expanded international inspections, including snap checks by UN inspectors
• Consideration of removing Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpile, potentially transferring it abroad

Key sticking point: Nuclear enrichment timeline

A major hurdle remains the duration of Iran’s proposed freeze on uranium enrichment. The US is pushing for a long-term restriction of up to 20 years, while Iran has proposed a significantly shorter five-year period. Negotiators are reportedly exploring a compromise window of 12 to 15 years.

Washington is also seeking enforcement mechanisms that would allow the extension of restrictions if Iran breaches agreed terms.

Despite the apparent momentum, divisions within Iran’s leadership are seen by US officials as a potential obstacle to finalising the deal. Concerns persist in Washington about Tehran’s internal consensus and long-term commitment.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio underscored the complexity of the negotiations, noting that a final agreement would require clarity on both sides regarding concessions and expectations. He also voiced scepticism about elements within Iran’s leadership, calling some figures “insane in the brain.”

The coming days are expected to be decisive, as the draft memorandum is being viewed as a fragile but meaningful step toward de-escalation.