US and Iran Sign Memorandums to Reopen Strait of Hormuz

The United States and Iran have signed multiple memorandums of understanding to end hostilities and restore commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz following a conflict that began in February 2026. These agreements, including a Pakistan-brokered 14-point deal and a Geneva memorandum, establish an interim ceasefire and a framework for nuclear negotiations. Under the terms, Iran agreed to ensure toll-free passage for commercial vessels for 60 days and to fully restore traffic within 30 days.

Despite these deals, the situation remains volatile. While the White House and Vice President Joseph Robinette Vance claim Iran pledged not to impose transit fees, Tehran is treating the waterway as its own jurisdiction. Iranian officials now require vessels to submit information and follow approved routes, with the IRGC Navy warning of forceful responses against non-compliant tankers. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi asserted that the strait is under Iranian command rather than U.S. Central Command.

Diplomatic efforts have been further complicated by conflicting reports of meetings in Doha, Qatar. President Donald Trump announced implementation talks in the city, but Iranian officials denied any direct bilateral meetings were scheduled, restricting their participation to technical consultations. This friction persists as Iran holds mourning ceremonies for former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, where military leaders vowed revenge against the U.S. and Israel, contradicting the spirit of the recent diplomatic breakthroughs.