'It's signed': Trump, Iran president announce electronically signing a memorandum to end war

VERSAILLES, FRANCE: President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian have signed a memorandum of understanding outlining terms aimed at ending the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran, according to US and Iranian officials.

 The agreement establishes an immediate halt to military operations, creates a framework for future nuclear negotiations, and links sanctions relief to Iran’s compliance with future commitments. Trump confirmed the signing on Wednesday, June 17, while attending the G7 summit in France, while Iranian officials said the agreement had already entered into effect.

Ceasefire framework, nuclear talks, and sanctions relief

According to US officials, the memorandum declares an intent to bring about an “immediate and permanent termination of military operations” in the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran.  

The framework calls for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, with Iran agreeing to allow the safe passage of commercial vessels without charges for an initial 60-day period. 

On nuclear issues, Iran reaffirmed that it “shall not procure or develop nuclear weapons.” US officials said Iran agreed in principle to address its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, although details regarding implementation remain subject to further negotiations.

The agreement also outlines a path toward sanctions relief. The United States pledged to begin lifting sanctions and to make frozen Iranian assets available. However, senior administration officials stressed that those measures would remain tied to Iran fulfilling future nuclear obligations.

One provision drawing particular attention involves a commitment by the US to work with regional partners on a framework for up to $300 billion in reconstruction and economic development funding for Iran. US officials emphasized that Washington is not obligated to directly contribute funds and described the measure as permitting foreign investment if a final agreement is reached.

“Such funds … shall be made fully usable for payment to any ultimate beneficiary designated by the Central Bank of the Islamic Republic of Iran … upon the implementation of the MOU,” the memorandum states.

Trump and Iran reactions, next steps for the deal 

Trump confirmed at the Palace of Versailles during the G7 summit. “It’s signed. Signed in Versailles. Just signed it,” Trump told reporters.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who served as Tehran’s lead negotiator, portrayed the agreement as a strategic success for Iran. "The steadfastness of the Iranian people brought the world's most powerful armies to their knees," Ghalibaf said.

Despite the signing, significant issues remain unresolved, including the future of Iran’s enrichment program, implementation mechanisms, sanctions timelines, and arrangements involving Lebanon. 

US officials acknowledged that either side could walk away from negotiations before a final agreement is reached. “If we’re not able to make a great deal, President Trump’s very clear that he’s a lot of tools at his disposal, and he will not be afraid to use them,” a senior US official said.

The next major step is expected on Friday, June 19, in Switzerland, where Vice President JD Vance is scheduled to attend a ceremonial signing event as both sides begin negotiations toward a final agreement.