A potential memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the United States and Iran, aimed at ending hostilities and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, is facing last-minute delays. President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that he expects to sign the deal on Sunday, coinciding with his 80th birthday. However, Iranian officials have dismissed the timing, with the Fars News Agency stating that 'the agreement has not been finalized and will definitely not take place on Sunday.'
Pakistan, acting as a mediator between the two nations, has prepared for an electronic signing to be followed by technical-level talks next week. Despite Tehran’s pushback, Iran’s foreign ministry did not rule out the possibility of an agreement in the coming days. Analysts suggest that Iran’s reluctance to sign on Trump’s birthday may be a symbolic gesture rather than a substantive issue.
Key Points of Contention
The proposed MOU includes demands from Iran for immediate sanctions relief and the unfreezing of assets. The U.S., however, insists on phased sanctions relief contingent on Iran winding down its nuclear program. Additionally, Iran’s vow to charge fees on ships crossing the Strait of Hormuz remains a contentious issue for the U.S.
"They don’t want to give Trump a birthday gift! (seriously, this is being discussed as an important factor among Iranian commentators)," said Hamidreza Azizi, an analyst at SWP Berlin.
Meanwhile, tensions persist in the region, with U.S. Central Command reporting the downing of Iranian drones targeting commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz. As negotiations continue, Trump plans to celebrate his birthday with a UFC fight on the White House South Lawn, marking both the occasion and the nation’s 250th anniversary.