Despite ongoing negotiations, Iran has denied that a significant agreement with the United States is on the verge of completion, citing unresolved issues that remain despite some progress. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei highlighted that while there has been mutual understanding on various points, claiming that a final deal is imminent would be premature. Baghaei attributed the delays to conflicting statements from Washington and interference from Israel.
A central aspect of the discussions is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping. Iran has clarified its intentions by stating that it does not plan to impose tolls on ships passing through but may implement fees for navigational and environmental protection services in collaboration with Oman. Additionally, Iran has emphasized that any agreement must include a ceasefire in Lebanon and the lifting of restrictions on its ports and shipping activities.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio remarked that talks are ongoing, describing the current proposal as significant. The framework reportedly involves a 30-day period following a ceasefire during which Iran would clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz to restore full maritime access. Meanwhile, the US military confirmed conducting strikes in southern Iran targeting missile launch sites and boats allegedly preparing to lay mines, actions that Washington has described as self-defense while expressing continued support for ceasefire efforts.
President Donald Trump stated that the final agreement would need to be “great and meaningful” or there would be no deal at all. He also encouraged several Middle Eastern nations to join the Abraham Accords to normalize relations with Israel, though reports indicate that regional leaders have shown limited interest in this proposal. Another sticking point in the negotiations is Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Although Tehran has expressed a willingness to temporarily reduce enrichment levels, it rejected demands to transfer its uranium stockpile abroad. Additionally, Iran seeks the release of billions in frozen assets held overseas.
Iranian officials have pointed out that political divisions within the United States, including criticism from Congress and segments of the Republican Party, are adding pressure on the White House and complicating the negotiations. The current proposed agreement does not cover Iran’s ballistic missile program or its support for regional armed groups, making it less comprehensive than what the US had initially demanded.