BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 12. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between Iran and the United States on June 17 is set to expire next week, amid growing disputes over the interpretation and implementation of several key provisions.
The 14-point agreement established a ceasefire between Tehran and Washington and set a 60-day deadline for negotiations aimed at reaching a permanent end to the conflict.
The MoU declared a halt to hostilities and included provisions on reopening the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping. However, disagreements over several clauses have led both sides to accuse each other of violating the agreement.
One of the most disputed sections is Article 5, which concerns navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran argues that the agreement recognises its authority over managing the waterway and says it agreed only to suspend fees and restrictions for two months. The United States rejects this interpretation, saying the clause only requires ensuring safe passage without restrictions.
Other key provisions include Article 10, under which Washington agreed to issue exemptions allowing Iran to export crude oil, petroleum products and related services, including banking, insurance and shipping support.
Article 11 concerns the release of Iran’s frozen financial assets, with the United States committing to making restricted funds available for use through a mechanism to be agreed during negotiations.
With no direct diplomatic talks or significant progress toward a final settlement expected soon, uncertainty remains after the expiration of the 60-day period.
