Iran's supreme leader says he authorized deal, direct talks with U.S.

Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has formally authorized the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Iran and the United States, signaling a significant shift in diplomatic engagement following years of hostility. In a written statement published on his Telegram channel, Khamenei expressed his reservations about the agreement but acknowledged the decision made by President Masoud Pezeshkian and the Supreme National Security Council. This authorization comes just ahead of planned direct talks between Iranian and U.S. representatives, set to take place in Switzerland either on Friday or Saturday. These talks represent the first formal dialogue between the two nations since the escalation of tensions in the Middle East.

The MOU, which was finalized remotely on Wednesday evening, outlines a framework for de-escalation. It mandates that both countries cease all hostilities, refrain from launching military strikes against each other, and respect each other’s territorial integrity. Additionally, the agreement includes provisions to phase out U.S. maritime restrictions in the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz, allowing for the free passage of commercial vessels. A joint oversight mechanism will also be established to ensure compliance with the terms of the agreement. This 60-day window provides negotiators with an opportunity to work towards a more comprehensive settlement.

Khamenei’s approval of the MOU was conditional upon assurances from senior Iranian officials that the agreement would protect Iran’s national interests. He emphasized that the deal does not imply acceptance of the "enemy's views," a phrase often used to describe the U.S. in Iranian rhetoric. Khamenei reiterated that the negotiations should continue to uphold the principles of the "Axis of Resistance," a term used to refer to Iran’s alliance with groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas. He also highlighted that Iranian officials, including Pezeshkian, had assured him that they would resist any undue pressures from the U.S., particularly regarding concessions that could undermine Iran’s strategic goals.

Behind the scenes, the authorization process reflects the complex power dynamics within Iran. Khamenei, who was injured in an Israeli airstrike targeting his father’s home early in the conflict, has remained largely absent from public life. His written statement serves as a critical endorsement of the MOU, even though he voiced concerns about its implications. The Supreme National Security Council, led by Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, played a pivotal role in persuading Khamenei to approve the agreement. According to reports, Pezeshkian personally vouched for the benefits of the deal, assuring Khamenei that Iran’s sovereignty and security would remain intact.

Analysts suggest that Khamenei’s cautious approach is designed to maintain political control. By authorizing the MOU, he allows the administration to pursue negotiations without appearing to fully endorse the deal. Should the talks succeed, Khamenei could claim credit for the progress. However, if the negotiations fail, he might shift the blame onto Pezeshkian and other officials, preserving his authority. This strategy mirrors that of his late predecessor, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, who similarly navigated delicate diplomatic waters while maintaining ideological dominance.

Meanwhile, the U.S. has moved swiftly to implement the MOU. President Donald Trump, who signed the agreement during a visit to France, has already taken steps to enforce its terms. The agreement marks a rare moment of cooperation between the two nations, despite their long-standing rivalry. As the first round of direct talks approaches, the outcome of these discussions will likely shape the trajectory of U.S.-Iran relations for months to come.