**Iran Urges US to Honor Commitments Under Memorandum of Understanding**
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan – Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian called on the United States to fulfill its obligations under a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed in June, aimed at establishing a ceasefire and initiating negotiations to end ongoing hostilities. Pezeshkian made these remarks during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit held in Bishkek on September 1, 2026, following a recent escalation in military exchanges between the two nations.
The MoU, brokered by Pakistan and Qatar, was intended to extend a ceasefire and set a 60-day timeline for negotiations to resolve the conflict that escalated following US and Israeli strikes on Tehran on February 28, 2026. Under the terms of the agreement, Iran committed to clearing mines from the Strait of Hormuz to allow safe passage for ships, while the US agreed to lift sanctions, end its naval blockade, and initiate a reconstruction package for Iran.
However, the ceasefire was short-lived, collapsing within weeks as hostilities resumed, including Iranian attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait. The MoU officially lapsed last month, leading to renewed tensions. Pezeshkian criticized the US for its failure to adhere to the agreement, stating, “America’s commitment to the document signed by the president of that country lasted less than two weeks,” and accused the US of making excessive demands and reneging on its commitments.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmaeil Baghaei, echoed Pezeshkian's sentiments, asserting that the US had “broken its promises” under the MoU. The recent exchange of fire, which included US forces attacking Larak Island and Iran retaliating by targeting two airbases in Jordan, has further strained relations.
In response to the escalating situation, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar emphasized the importance of “sincere implementation” of the MoU as the only viable path to ending the conflict. He highlighted the need for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region.
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Majed al-Ansari, also stressed the urgency of finding a peaceful solution and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for global oil shipments. Al-Ansari noted that Qatar is actively engaging with various partners to facilitate dialogue and resolve the ongoing crisis.
The recent diplomatic efforts included visits from officials from Pakistan, Qatar, and Oman to Tehran, aimed at renewing discussions before the latest military exchanges occurred. The international community remains watchful of the situation, as further escalation could have significant implications for regional stability and global energy markets.
As both nations navigate this complex landscape, the call for adherence to the MoU underscores the challenges of achieving lasting peace and stability in a region marked by conflict and geopolitical tensions.