U.S. Activates Interim MOU with Iran; Naval Blockade Lifted as Oil Traffic Resumes

The U.S.-Iran conflict entered a new phase of de-escalation over the last 24 hours as the interim Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by President Donald Trump and President Masoud Pezeshkian was formally activated. U.S. Central Command confirmed the lifting of the naval blockade on all Iranian maritime traffic, leading to an immediate resumption of commercial flow through the Strait of Hormuz. Early reports indicate that over 12 million barrels of oil moved through the waterway overnight as shipping lanes reopened. Diplomatically, the White House has transmitted the agreement text to Congress, marking the start of a 60-day technical negotiation period. These talks, expected to take place in Switzerland with mediation support from Qatar, will focus on a final settlement regarding Iran's nuclear program and enrichment limits. While the interim terms provide Tehran with significant sanctions relief and the establishment of a reconstruction fund, U.S. officials maintain a posture of "coercive enforcement." Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the military remains positioned to resume operations should Iran fail to meet its obligations. On the regional front, the agreement reportedly includes provisions for a cessation of hostilities across multiple fronts, including Lebanon. Iran has agreed to begin diluting its stockpiles of enriched uranium as a gesture of compliance during the 60-day window. Despite the progress, rhetoric from Tehran remains guarded; Iran’s Supreme Leader reportedly characterized the U.S. approach as framed by executive desperation, even as the country moves to restore its shipping revenue and access to frozen assets.