US-Iran Peace Deal: What is Article 5 of Washington-Tehran MoU and how one line in it is fueling fresh tensions over Hormuz? It says…

The recent ceasefire between the United States and Iran may have stopped the fighting, but a disagreement over one line in their peace agreement has created fresh tensions. The dispute is centred on Article 5 of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which was signed around two weeks ago to end four months of conflict and restore safe shipping through the Hormuz Strait.

Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important sea routes for oil and gas exports. A large share of global energy supplies passes through this narrow waterway, making stability in the region crucial for international trade.

What does Article 5 of the US-Iran MoU say?

According to the agreement, Iran will make every effort for 60 days to ensure the safe movement of commercial ships between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. This includes removing sea mines, clearing military obstacles, and allowing shipping to resume.

However, the final line of Article 5 has become the main point of disagreement. It says that Iran will later discuss the administration and maritime services of the Hormuz Strait with Oman and other Gulf countries, based on international law and the sovereign rights of coastal nations.

Why has this become a major dispute?

Iran says the clause confirms that it will continue to have the biggest role in managing the Hormuz Strait. The United States, however, believes the waterway should be managed through international coordination so that no single country has complete control over such an important global shipping route.

The disagreement turned into military action after a commercial ship passing through the Hormuz Strait was attacked on Friday. The US blamed Iran and carried out airstrikes on Iranian positions. Iran responded by launching missiles and drones towards US bases. It was the first direct military clash between the two countries since the ceasefire agreement.

Why is the Hormuz Strait so important?

The Hormuz Strait is a vital route for global oil and gas supplies. Any disruption in the area can affect energy prices and international trade. Iran has earlier suggested that ships using the route could be charged a transit fee, a proposal rejected by the US and Gulf nations.

Despite the latest tensions, both countries have now agreed to stop further fighting, with talks expected to take place in Qatar on Tuesday.