US still refusing to accept certain clauses of possible peace MoU with Iran: Report
Tehran, May 25
The United States is still refusing to accept certain clauses of a potential memorandum of understanding with Iran on ending the war, the semi-official Tasnim news agency reported.
Citing information obtained by its reporter, Tasnim said that despite some talks held between the two sides on Sunday, the United States is still obstructing certain clauses of the potential peace MoU, including the release of Iran's frozen assets.
It added that there is still a possibility that the MoU would be canceled, and Iran has stressed that it will not back down from its red lines in safeguarding the rights of its people.
On Saturday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei told state-run IRIB TV that Iran and the United States are working to finalise an MoU on ending the war, Xinhua news agency reported.
"At this stage, our focus is on ending the imposed war," Baghaei stressed, adding, "Our intention has been to firstly agree on an MoU consisting of 14 clauses."
He noted that "within a period of 30 to 60 days," Tehran and Washington would reach a final agreement, saying, "Among the major topics to be addressed in the MoU are the cessation of US maritime attacks, or naval blockade as they themselves call it, and other issues pertaining to the release of Iranian frozen assets."
Iran, the United States and Israel reached a ceasefire on April 8 after 40 days of fighting that started with US and Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28.
Following the truce, Iranian and US delegations held one round of peace talks in Pakistan's Islamabad on April 11 and 12, which failed to yield an agreement.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Fourteen clauses sounds like a lot – but if both sides genuinely want peace, they'll find a middle ground. The reference to Pakistan hosting talks is interesting; India must keep a close watch on that angle. Any deal that stabilises West Asia benefits our energy security and diaspora there.
"Naval blockade" and "maritime attacks" – these are serious allegations. If the US is indeed blockading Iran, it's a violation of international norms. India has always supported dialogue over coercion. But let's be realistic: Washington's track record on keeping its word is patchy at best.
Just another round of American delaying tactics. They'll talk for months, extract concessions, and then blame Iran for "non-compliance." India should use its diplomatic channels to encourage both sides to finalise this quickly – a war in our neighbourhood is never good for business or stability. 🕊️
Pakistan hosting talks is a red flag for us. But let's focus on the core issue: Iran's frozen assets are its sovereign money. The US has no right to hold them hostage. If I were Iran, I'd demand upfront release before even signing a paper napkin, let alone an MoU. Strong words, but that's the reality.
"Iran will not back down from its red lines" – love the resolve! But peace requires both sides to bend a little. The US should end its economic warfare, and Iran should offer verifiable guarantees on nuclear and missile issues. India's Chabahar port project stands to benefit hugely if this war ends for good.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.