Kathmandu— President Masoud Pezeshkian of Iran has urged the United States to honor its commitments under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that lapsed after recent attacks escalated tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. The MoU, signed in June and brokered by Pakistan and Qatar, aimed at ending the war between the two nations through a ceasefire extension and negotiations. However, the agreement collapsed within weeks due to non-compliance from both sides.

Ceasefire Framework Under Pressure

The MoU signed in mid-June provided for a ceasefire extension and initiated a 60-day period for negotiations aimed at ending the war that began with US and Israeli strikes on Tehran on February 28. Iran agreed to clear the Strait of Hormuz of mines, while the US committed to lifting sanctions and issuing waivers for Iranian oil exports. However, the agreement broke down after just two weeks due to excessive demands from both sides.

Pezeshkian made these remarks at a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on Tuesday, following an exchange of fire between US forces and Iran over Larak Island and retaliatory strikes by Iran on airbases used by the US in Jordan. 'America’s commitment to the document signed by the president of that country lasted less than two weeks,' Pezeshkian said, according to IRNA.

Diplomatic Efforts Continue

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stated on Tuesday that the 'sincere implementation' of the MoU remains the only way forward to end the conflict. Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari emphasized that the return of escalation is not in anyone’s interest and that Qatar is working with partners to reach a peaceful solution and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Officials from Pakistan, Qatar, and Oman traveled to Tehran last week for talks aimed at renewing diplomatic efforts before the latest exchange of attacks between Iran and the US.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.