Iran has countered claims that a substantial agreement with the United States is nearing completion, citing unresolved key issues despite some progress in discussions. Esmail Baghaei, the spokesperson for Iran’s foreign ministry, emphasized that while there has been mutual understanding on numerous points, a final deal is not yet assured. He attributed delays to contradictory statements emerging from Washington and external interference from Israel.
Central to these negotiations is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping. Iran has clarified its position, stating it does not intend to impose tolls on passing ships. However, it may introduce charges for navigational and environmental protection services, coordinated with Oman. Iran has also stipulated that any potential agreement must include a ceasefire in Lebanon and the easing of restrictions on its ports and shipping operations.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged ongoing discussions, referring to the proposal as significant. The framework under consideration includes a 30-day post-ceasefire period during which Iran would clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz, thereby restoring full maritime access. Concurrently, the US military has confirmed strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile launch sites and boats purportedly preparing to lay mines, actions described by Washington as self-defense while supporting ceasefire efforts.
President Donald Trump has stated that any final agreement would be “great and meaningful” or there would be no deal at all, urging Middle Eastern nations to join the Abraham Accords and normalize relations with Israel, although initial interest appears limited from regional leaders. Another contentious issue remains Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. While Tehran has expressed readiness to temporarily reduce enrichment levels, it has rejected calls to transfer its uranium stockpile abroad. Furthermore, Iran is seeking the release of billions of dollars in overseas frozen assets.
Iranian officials have highlighted that political divisions within the US, including criticism from Congress and parts of the Republican Party, are exerting pressure on the White House, complicating the negotiation process. Notably, the current agreement does not address Iran’s ballistic missile program or its support for armed groups in the region, rendering it less comprehensive than previous US requests.
