Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei authorized a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. to end the war, despite having reservations. He stated that future negotiations would not involve accepting the 'enemy's position'.
The approval of the memorandum of understanding signifies a potential de-escalation in regional conflicts and a shift in U.S.-Iran relations, though significant challenges remain in the subsequent negotiations.
Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has authorized a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. to end the war, despite holding reservations about the deal. He stated that he granted permission based on assurances from President Masoud Pezeshkian and other senior officials that Iran's rights and the interests of the 'Resistance Front' would be safeguarded. Khamenei communicated this in a written message, indicating that future face-to-face negotiations with the United States would not equate to accepting the 'enemy's position'. The Supreme Leader had previously stated that Iran would not accept overly demanding terms from the American side during ongoing negotiations.
Under the terms of the memorandum of understanding, Tehran could gain access to up to $300 billion for redevelopment efforts. This would be in exchange for agreeing to end fighting in Lebanon, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and commit to never seeking to procure a nuclear weapon. The deal has faced criticism in Israel and Washington, with some arguing the Trump administration secured few meaningful commitments from Iran. Vice President Vance defended the deal at a White House press briefing, urging critics to have faith in President Trump.