Iran releases its version of agreement with US, exposes key differences

Iran has published its own version of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed with the United States, revealing several differences from the text released by Washington, according to reports.

The agreement, intended to end hostilities and promote regional stability, was released by Iran’s state news agency IRNA.

Although the overall structure remains similar, differences appear in sections dealing with Lebanon, maritime navigation, the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s nuclear commitments, and energy exports.

One notable distinction is the title. Iran refers to the document as the “Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding on ending the imposed war by the United States and the Zionist regime against Iran,” while the US version uses the more neutral title “Memorandum of Understanding Between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran.”

The two texts also differ in their language regarding Lebanon. Iran’s version states that the parties will “guarantee” Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, whereas the US text says they will “respect” them.

Differences extend to maritime provisions. Iran’s text says shipping volumes should return to levels determined by Tehran, while the US version states that maritime traffic will gradually return to pre-war levels. Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s version emphasizes future discussions with Oman and Gulf states on managing the waterway, while the US text refers more generally to consultations with regional partners.

The nuclear section also contains variations. Iran’s document states that it will not “produce or acquire” nuclear weapons and references the country’s civilian nuclear requirements. The US text says Iran will not “procure or develop” such weapons and omits any mention of Iran’s nuclear needs.

Energy-related language differs as well. Iran refers to exports of crude oil, petrochemical products, and derivatives, while the US version mentions crude oil, petroleum products, and derivatives. The Iranian wording potentially covers a broader range of chemical and industrial products.

Questions have also emerged regarding the signing process. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif initially announced a signing ceremony in Geneva on June 19 but later stated that the agreement had already been digitally signed by the presidents of both countries and endorsed by Pakistan as mediator.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei subsequently confirmed that no physical signing ceremony would take place because the memorandum had already been finalized electronically. However, negotiators from both sides are expected to meet in Geneva for discussions on implementation.

Meanwhile, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem welcomed the agreement, describing it as a major achievement for Iran. He argued that the understanding could have important implications for Lebanon and called for efforts to secure the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory.