Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei approved a landmark memorandum of understanding with the United States on June 18, 2026, ending a four-month conflict, though he publicly stated he initially disagreed with the agreement.
In a written statement carried by Iranian state media, Khamenei said he had “a different opinion” on the deal but granted permission after President Masoud Pezeshkian and other officials assured him that the agreement would protect “the rights of the Iranian nation and the resistance front,” according to Al Jazeera. Khamenei accepted responsibility for the accord and warned Washington against further demands: “If the American side wants to be greedy, they will not accept it,” he said.
The memorandum of understanding, electronically signed by US President Donald Trump and Pezeshkian this week, calls for a permanent end to hostilities on all fronts, including Lebanon. It also establishes a 60-day negotiating window for both sides to reach a comprehensive final agreement covering Iran’s nuclear program, according to AP News and PBS NewsHour.
The accord reopens the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical shipping routes, which Iran had effectively blocked during the conflict. Iran has suspended toll charges for commercial vessels transiting the strait for 60 days, according to Al Jazeera. The United States, in turn, lifted its naval blockade of Iranian ports, with US Central Command confirming that American forces are no longer impeding vessels traveling to or from Iranian ports in the Gulf and Gulf of Oman.
Despite his reservations, Khamenei endorsed direct negotiations with the US, stating: “It is obvious that the face-to-face negotiations that will be held in the future will not mean accepting the enemy’s opinion,” according to Al Jazeera. The 60-day period is expected to focus on contentious issues including sanctions relief and Iran’s uranium enrichment levels, with the International Atomic Energy Agency offering technical assistance on verification measures.
The deal marks a significant shift from the conflict that began on February 28, 2026, following Israeli and US military strikes on Iran. The agreement reflects both sides’ willingness to negotiate despite deep mistrust, though uncertainty remained over whether Iranian officials would travel to Switzerland for implementation talks on June 19, with Iran’s Tasnim news agency reporting that Tehran had not yet finalized its delegation decision.
Sources
- Al Jazeera — Khamenei’s statement on approval despite reservations, assurances from Pezeshkian, warning against US demands, endorsement of direct talks, Strait of Hormuz toll suspension
- AP News — Deal structure, 60-day negotiating period for final agreement on nuclear program
- PBS NewsHour — 60-day negotiating clock confirmation, US blockade lift
- Reuters — Khamenei’s approval statement and reservations
