NEW DELHI: In a major diplomatic breakthrough, the United States and Iran have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at ending months of hostilities and paving the way for comprehensive negotiations on Tehran's nuclear programme and broader regional security issues.

The agreement was formally signed on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Versailles, France, marking the most significant step toward de-escalation between the two countries in years. The MoU establishes a framework for ending military confrontations, reopening key maritime routes, and initiating a new phase of dialogue on Iran's nuclear activities, sanctions relief, and regional stability.

According to officials, the agreement seeks to restore freedom of navigation through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz while creating a roadmap for future negotiations under international supervision. The two sides are expected to hold further talks in the coming weeks to convert the framework agreement into a binding accord.

The breakthrough follows months of diplomatic efforts involving multiple international mediators and comes amid growing concerns over regional security and global energy supplies. While the deal has been welcomed by several world leaders as a step toward stability, it has also drawn criticism from political groups in both countries and from some regional allies who remain skeptical about its long-term viability.

Analysts say the success of the agreement will ultimately depend on progress in upcoming negotiations over Iran's nuclear programme, sanctions relief, and security commitments. Despite the optimism surrounding the signing, officials on both sides have acknowledged that significant challenges remain before a final and lasting settlement can be achieved.