What Is the Islamabad Memorandum? Iran Says US Deal Is ‘Closer Than Ever’

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has indicated that a proposed agreement between Iran and the United States to extend their fragile ceasefire and continue nuclear negotiations is close to being finalised.

The proposed framework, referred to as the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), could reportedly extend the current truce by another 60 days while both sides hold additional diplomatic talks.

The development comes at a time when tensions remain high in the region, even as both countries explore ways to prevent further escalation.

Abbas Araghchi Says Agreement Nearing Completion

In a post on the social media platform X, Abbas Araghchi said the proposed understanding between Tehran and Washington had reached an advanced stage and was awaiting finalisation.

"The Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding has never been closer. Pending its finalization, the media should refrain from entering speculation about its content," Araghchi wrote.

The Iranian foreign minister urged journalists and observers not to speculate about the details of the agreement while negotiations are still underway. According to him, official information will be released only after the process is complete.

He added:

"In line with our responsible and transparent approach, all details will be shared with the public in due course."

What Is the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding?

According to the latest statements from Iranian officials, the proposed Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding is aimed at extending the existing ceasefire arrangement between the United States and Iran for an additional 60 days.

The extension would provide both countries with more time to continue discussions over issues related to Iran's nuclear programme and broader regional security concerns. While details of the draft agreement have not been officially released, the reported objective is to maintain stability while diplomatic negotiations continue.

Neither Washington nor Tehran has yet published the final text of the proposed memorandum.

Trump Criticises Leaks About the Deal

The latest comments from Araghchi come shortly after US President Donald Trump criticised what he described as inaccurate reports about the proposed agreement. In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump accused Iran of leaking misleading details about the understanding to media outlets linked to the Iranian regime.

Trump argued that the information circulating publicly did not match the terms that had allegedly been agreed upon during negotiations.

According to the US President, the reported details had "nothing to do with the terms that were agreed to, in writing," and he accused Iranian officials of acting in bad faith.
The exchange of public statements highlights the sensitivity surrounding the negotiations, with both sides attempting to shape the narrative while discussions continue behind closed doors.

Focus on Nuclear Talks and Regional Stability

The reported memorandum is significant because it could create a diplomatic window for further nuclear discussions between the two countries. Relations between the US and Iran have remained strained for years, with disputes over sanctions, regional conflicts, and Iran's nuclear activities repeatedly leading to periods of heightened tension.

A temporary extension of the ceasefire could help reduce the risk of direct confrontation while allowing negotiators to work on longer-term solutions.

Analysts believe that continued dialogue may also help ease concerns over security in the Middle East, where recent incidents involving commercial shipping and military activity have added to uncertainty.

No Official Details Released Yet

Despite Araghchi's optimistic remarks, the full contents of the proposed Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding have not been made public. Iranian officials have asked media organisations to avoid speculation until the agreement is formally signed.

At present, there has been no official announcement confirming the finalisation of the memorandum or providing a timeline for its signing. However, Araghchi's latest statement suggests that negotiations have entered a critical phase and that both sides may be moving closer to an understanding.

If the agreement is concluded, it could provide a temporary extension to the current ceasefire and open the door for another round of nuclear talks between Washington and Tehran, with broader implications for stability in the Middle East.