Diplomats are currently engaged in negotiations between the United States and Iran, focusing on a one-page, 14-point memorandum of understanding (MOU) intended to halt active hostilities. This approach recalls the efforts of Winston Lord, who was instrumental in the Vietnam War negotiations, particularly in drafting the 1973 Paris Peace Accords. Lord's experience underscores the challenges of achieving a lasting peace, as both sides often require vague language to allow domestic political maneuvering. The current talks face similar difficulties, including internal divisions within the Iranian leadership and the exclusion of key players like France from the discussions. A senior European official expressed skepticism about the likelihood of a successful agreement and Iran's commitment to its terms. Ultimately, history shows that a mere document does not end a war; it is the mutual decision of both parties to embrace peace that truly matters.