**Tehran Considers Presidential Signing for Iran-US Deal in Switzerland**
*Published on June 17, 2026*
Iran's Foreign Ministry has announced that a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Iran and the United States is set to be signed in Switzerland, potentially in the presence of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and former President Donald Trump. The signing is anticipated to take place on Friday, June 19, 2026.
The announcement follows previous statements indicating that the signing ceremony would involve key representatives from both nations. Initially, it was reported that Vice President JD Vance would represent the United States while Iran would be represented by Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. However, the latest development suggests a higher level of engagement with the involvement of the two presidents.
Esmaeil Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran's Foreign Ministry, confirmed that plans for the summit in Switzerland remain unchanged. He mentioned that one of the proposals under consideration is for the presidents of both countries to be present during the signing of the MOU, highlighting a significant move towards diplomatic engagement.
At a recent G7 summit in France, Trump expressed optimism regarding the agreement, stating that it would be signed "shortly." He did not provide a specific date but indicated that the signing could occur as soon as Friday, aligning with the Iranian announcement.
The MOU aims to establish a new framework for managing Iran's nuclear program and includes provisions for maritime security in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. Baghaei emphasized that Iran intends to restore normal maritime traffic in the Strait within a defined timeframe, asserting that the management of this process will be solely under Iranian control without outside intervention.
In addition to the maritime provisions, the agreement includes commitments from both sides to negotiate a final agreement within 60 days. Baghaei noted that the naval blockade affecting the region is expected to end within 30 days following the signing of the MOU.
A senior US official provided insights into the content of the MOU, stating that it establishes a minimum threshold for downblending Iran's stock of highly enriched uranium. The agreement also contains measures aimed at ensuring Lebanon's territorial integrity amid ongoing tensions due to Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah.
In exchange for Iran's commitments under the MOU, the United States is expected to waive some sanctions, though a complete lifting of sanctions is not anticipated at this stage. The agreement also includes provisions for toll-free transit through the Strait of Hormuz for a period of 60 days, with the possibility of imposing transit fees thereafter.
As the signing date approaches, both nations appear to be making strides towards a potential thaw in relations, with the MOU representing a critical step in addressing long-standing issues related to Iran's nuclear program and regional security dynamics. The outcome of the summit in Switzerland could have significant implications for both Iranian and US foreign policy moving forward.