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Politics
Jun 19, 2026
Analyzed by GPT OSS 120B

Iran’s Supreme Leader Endorses US‑Iran MoU After Initial Opposition

AI Summary
Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei initially disagreed with the US‑Iran memorandum of understanding but approved it after assurances that Iran’s interests would be protected. The 60‑day negotiation window has begun, with immediate steps such as reopening the Strait of Hormuz and lifting the US naval blockade.

Supreme Leader Endorses US‑Iran MoU After Initial Opposition

Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei issued a written statement saying he had “a different opinion” on the newly signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Tehran and Washington, but granted approval after assurances that Iran’s national interests would be protected.

Khamenei’s Conditional Approval and the Commencement of Negotiations

The MoU was electronically signed by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Vice President JD Vance announced that a 60‑day negotiating period has formally begun, focusing on sanctions relief, the nuclear programme, and regional security issues.

  • Iran’s leadership pledged to safeguard “the rights of the Iranian nation and the resistance front.”
  • Switzerland’s Federal Department of Foreign Affairs expects talks in Geneva to proceed as planned.
  • The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) director general Rafael Mariano Grossi welcomed the MoU and offered verification assistance.

Immediate Operational Changes: Strait of Hormuz and Maritime Traffic

As part of the agreement, Iran announced a 60‑day waiver of passage fees for commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that American forces are no longer impeding vessels to Iranian ports.

  • The United Kingdom lifted travel advisories for the Gulf region.
  • Kuwait Petroleum Corporation removed force‑majeure notices and plans to raise oil output to 2 million barrels per day within a week.

Regional Repercussions and Shifts in Diplomatic Stance

Khamenei warned against any “greedy” additional demands from Washington, while also endorsing direct face‑to‑face talks. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ruled out troop withdrawals from southern Lebanon, underscoring lingering tensions.

Outlook for the 60‑Day Negotiation Window and Future Stability

The next two months will test whether the parties can reach a final agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme and broader security concerns. Successful technical work, as described by Grossi, could pave the way for a durable ceasefire across the region.