The Trump administration has put forward a one-page memorandum of understanding aimed at de-escalating the months-long conflict with Iran, according to sources familiar with the talks. The document would establish a framework for negotiations on Tehran's nuclear program, with key provisions including a moratorium on enrichment, sanctions relief, and mutual lifting of restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Key Provisions of the Proposed Deal
Under the draft, Iran would commit to halting uranium enrichment for at least 12 to 15 years, with a possible allowance to enrich up to 3.67 percent purity after that period, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing an Iranian official. Tehran currently holds stockpiles enriched to 60 percent—just short of the 90 percent needed for weaponization. In exchange, the US would gradually lift sanctions and release billions in frozen Iranian funds. The United Nations would conduct inspections of Iran's nuclear facilities.
Strait of Hormuz at the Center
A critical element is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of the world's oil passes. Iran has threatened commercial vessels and laid mines in the waterway—including as recently as April 23, despite a ceasefire, according to General Dan Caine, chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. These disruptions have driven global oil prices higher, with US gas prices exceeding $4.50 per gallon on Wednesday for the first time since 2022, according to AAA.
The US Navy launched a blockade of Iranian ports last month and began escorting ships through the strait on Monday. However, President Trump halted the escort mission on Tuesday after Iran fired at multiple US warships, citing a request from Pakistan and the need to give negotiations room to breathe.
Trump's Ultimatum and Rubio's Remarks
President Trump warned Iranian officials early Wednesday that rejection of the proposal would trigger escalated bombing. “If they don’t agree, the bombing starts, and it will be, sadly, at a much higher level and intensity than it was before,” he wrote on Truth Social. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters Tuesday that Iran could pursue a civilian nuclear program but its actions suggest a military ambition. “They’re acting like they want a military nuclear program. That’s unacceptable,” Rubio said, adding that negotiations are “highly complex and highly technical.” He noted that Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are working on the details.
Rubio also dismissed any proposal that does not address nuclear concessions, as reported in earlier briefings.
Next Steps and Stakes
The two sides are actively negotiating the duration of the enrichment moratorium, with sources telling Axios that at least 12 years is the baseline and 15 years likely. The agreement, if finalized, could ease global energy markets and reduce military tensions, but the path remains fraught. Trump has threatened escalated strikes if Tehran does not accept terms, while Iran's continued mining of the strait and attacks on US ships underscore the fragile state of negotiations.
