A proposed memorandum aimed at ending the Gulf conflict has triggered fresh political controversy after leaked versions of the draft suggested Iran could receive significant economic benefits in exchange for easing regional tensions and reopening critical shipping routes.
According to accounts reviewed by Reuters from Western, Pakistani and senior Iranian sources, the proposed framework would create a pathway toward ending hostilities while launching a new phase of negotiations over Iran's nuclear activities. Similar versions of the document were also circulated in Iranian media.
However, President Donald Trump quickly pushed back against the reports, saying the leaked descriptions did not accurately reflect the negotiations. Trump publicly rejected Iran's portrayal of the proposed agreement and insisted that any final deal must meet key U.S. security demands before Tehran receives meaningful relief.
The controversy centers on claims that Iran could gain access to billions of dollars in frozen assets and receive sanctions relief while more difficult issues — including Tehran's highly enriched uranium stockpile and broader nuclear restrictions — would be addressed later through additional negotiations. Critics argue such an arrangement could hand Iran significant benefits upfront.
U.S. officials familiar with the talks have offered a different picture, describing the agreement as performance-based and insisting that Iran would have to satisfy strict conditions before receiving major economic concessions. Those conditions reportedly include actions related to Tehran's nuclear activities and regional security concerns.
The leak comes at a sensitive moment as Washington and Tehran continue efforts to stabilize the region following months of conflict, disruption in the Strait of Hormuz and volatility in global energy markets. Oil prices have fallen amid optimism that diplomacy could eventually restore shipping flows and reduce tensions across the Gulf.
Despite reports that preparations for a potential signing ceremony are being discussed, major differences remain between the American and Iranian versions of the proposed deal. Iranian officials say no final decision has been reached, while Trump's administration continues to signal that key issues remain unresolved.