Iran has refuted claims that a substantial agreement with the United States is nearing completion, citing unresolved key issues despite advancements in negotiations. Esmail Baghaei, a spokesperson for Iran’s foreign ministry, acknowledged that many points have been agreed upon, but emphasized that a definitive deal is not on the horizon. He attributed the slowdown to conflicting messages from Washington and interference from Israel.
The discussions primarily focus on reopening the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping. While Iran has clarified that it does not plan to impose tolls, it may charge fees for navigational and environmental protection services, in collaboration with Oman. Furthermore, Iran has stipulated that any agreement must encompass a ceasefire in Lebanon and the removal of restrictions on Iranian ports and shipping activities.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the ongoing discussions as significant, noting that the proposed framework includes a 30-day period post-ceasefire during which Iran would clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz, thereby restoring full maritime access. Concurrently, the US military confirmed conducting strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile sites and boats allegedly preparing to deploy mines. These actions were described by Washington as self-defensive, with continued support for the ceasefire efforts.
US President Donald Trump has stated that the final agreement must be either “great and meaningful” or there will be no deal. He has also encouraged several Middle Eastern nations to join the Abraham Accords and establish normalized relations with Israel, though regional leaders have reportedly shown limited interest in the proposal.
One of the unresolved issues in the negotiations is Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. While Tehran has expressed willingness to temporarily reduce enrichment levels, it has rejected demands to transfer its uranium stockpile abroad. Additionally, Iran is seeking the release of billions of dollars in frozen assets overseas. Iranian officials contend that internal political divisions in the US, including criticism from Congress and factions within the Republican Party, are exerting pressure on the White House and complicating the negotiation process. The proposed agreement currently omits addressing Iran’s ballistic missile program and its support for regional armed groups, rendering it less comprehensive than earlier US demands.
