Negotiations between Washington and Tehran are poised to resume, with US President Donald Trump announcing that an agreement with Iran is imminent and that talks will begin on Monday. The announcement follows the cancellation of planned strikes, marking a significant shift in the diplomatic landscape. Main Developments Trump stated that negotiations are scheduled to commence on Monday, expressing optimism about reaching a deal. The talks come after the US called off planned strikes, signaling a preference for diplomatic engagement over military action. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has urged the United States to remain committed to the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the two countries in June. Pezeshkian emphasized that the interim deal would serve as the cornerstone of Tehran's future foreign relations. Read also: Iran-US Talks Set for Monday as Trump Halts Strikes Background The June MoU represents a rare formal agreement between the longtime adversaries, who have been at odds over Iran's nuclear program and regional influence. The interim deal was seen as a tentative step toward broader reconciliation, though it has faced criticism from hardliners on both sides. Trump's decision to halt strikes and pivot to negotiations follows weeks of escalating tensions, including threats of military action. The move aligns with his stated preference for reaching deals, though it remains unclear what concessions each side is willing to make. Why It Matters The resumption of talks could reshape the geopolitical landscape in the Middle East, potentially easing sanctions and reducing the risk of armed conflict. For Iran, the deal's success hinges on US adherence to the MoU, which Tehran views as a foundation for future diplomatic engagement. Observers will be watching whether the negotiations yield a lasting agreement or merely a temporary truce, given the deep-seated mistrust between the two governments. What's Next With talks set for Monday, both sides face the challenge of translating the MoU into concrete actions. Key questions include the scope of sanctions relief, verification mechanisms for Iran's nuclear commitments, and whether the interim deal can withstand domestic political pressures in both countries.