Pakistan Reports Progress on Possible One-Page U.S.-Iran Memo on Nuclear Issues and Strait of Hormuz

Pakistani negotiators have reported progress toward a possible one-page memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran. The document would address Iran's nuclear activities and the security of the Strait of Hormuz, according to the officials.

The officials described the potential agreement as a concise memo rather than a full treaty. They indicated that discussions have advanced enough to suggest the outline of such a document could be feasible in the near term. No specific timeline for completion or signatures was provided.

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway through which about one-fifth of global oil consumption passes. Any agreement covering the area would aim to reduce the risk of conflict that could disrupt energy shipments. Iran's nuclear program has been a source of dispute with the United States for years, with Washington seeking limits on enrichment and other activities.

Background to the Talks The United States and Iran have had no direct diplomatic relations since 1980. Contacts on nuclear matters have often involved third parties or multilateral settings such as the earlier JCPOA framework, which the United States left in 2018.

Pakistan maintains relations with both countries and has sometimes served as a channel for messages. The current effort appears to be an attempt to find a limited, practical understanding rather than a comprehensive deal. The focus on a single-page memo suggests negotiators are seeking to narrow the scope to the most urgent issues of nuclear restraint and maritime security in the Gulf region.