US, Iran pursue 14-point deal to restart talks in Islamabad

The United States and Iran are working through intermediaries to finalize a one-page, 14-point memorandum of understanding (MOU), The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported, citing sources. The document aims to establish a framework for one month of negotiations to end the war, with these discussion points set to become the core agenda for the next round of talks. Negotiations could resume as early as next week in Islamabad, Pakistan. According to the sources, Iran has shown some flexibility from its previous stance by expressing a willingness to discuss its nuclear program. However, several key issues remain unresolved and are expected to complicate the final negotiations. These include a deadline for halting uranium enrichment, whether to transfer highly enriched uranium abroad, and Iran's insistence on maintaining permanent control over the Strait of Hormuz. The timing and scope of sanctions relief could also be a stumbling block. The sources added that the one-month negotiation period could be extended by mutual agreement if progress is made. An Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated that the country is reviewing a proposal from the U.S. and will convey its position through Pakistani intermediaries once the evaluation is complete.