US and Iran sign initial agreement to end war but tougher talks lie ahead

Among other things, the memorandum of agreement seeks to relax sanctions on Iran and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Tougher negotiations are anticipated despite the US and Iran signing an initial deal to end the conflict. Among other things, the memorandum of agreement seeks to relax sanctions on Iran and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

At the end of his G7 visit, President Trump signed a copy of the US-Iran deal at the Palace of Versailles in France. According to a US official, Iranian President Pezeshkian signed the document after it was sent to Tehran. 

According to the pact, the US and Iran must reach a final agreement within 60 days. It also outlines plans for reopening the Strait of Hormuz and states that the US will grant waivers so Iran can export oil. 

Additionally, it binds the United States and its regional allies to a $300 billion Iran rehabilitation fund.

Israel has maintained its strikes in Lebanon and has pledged not to leave, despite the accord calling for an immediate end to the war on all fronts. Trump reiterated his criticism of Israel's military actions against Hezbollah, stating that "they could do better," and claimed that the US had handed Israel a copy of the agreement.