Iran's Supreme Leader Approves Memorandum to End Conflict with U.S., Expresses Personal Reservations

TEHRAN — Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, announced on the 18th that he has approved a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at ending the Middle East conflict, though he explicitly stated he holds a 'different view' on the matter.

In a written statement broadcast on state television, Mojtaba Khamenei explained that his approval was granted because President Masoud Pezeshkian, in his capacity as chairman of the Supreme National Security Council, provided personal assurances that the rights of Iran and the 'Resistance Front' would be protected. The Supreme Leader emphasized that President Pezeshkian pledged not to concede to excessive demands from Washington.

The memorandum was signed by U.S. President Donald Trump and President Pezeshkian. Mojtaba remarked that the U.S. side sought the agreement out of desperation. He further clarified that engaging in future face-to-face negotiations with the U.S. does not constitute an endorsement of the 'enemy's positions.'

Mojtaba Khamenei succeeded his father, Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a joint U.S.-Israeli airstrike on February 28. This event served as the catalyst for the current conflict. This marks the first time the younger Khamenei has addressed the ceasefire agreement since taking office.