Iran has refuted reports suggesting that a significant agreement with the United States is nearing completion, emphasizing that there are still numerous unresolved issues despite some advancements in negotiations. The Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, acknowledged that both parties have found common ground on various topics, but cautioned against any assumptions that a final deal is imminent. He attributed the slowdown in talks to conflicting messages from Washington and interference from Israel.
A critical aspect of the negotiations involves the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping activities. Iran has clarified its position, stating that it does not intend to impose tolls on ships passing through the strait. Instead, the country may introduce charges for navigational and environmental protection services, in collaboration with Oman. Additionally, Iran has maintained that any potential agreement should entail a ceasefire in Lebanon and the lifting of restrictions on its ports and shipping operations.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has indicated that discussions are ongoing, describing the proposal on the table as substantial. The proposed framework reportedly involves a 30-day period following the establishment of a ceasefire, during which Iran would be responsible for removing mines from the Strait of Hormuz and restoring full maritime access. Concurrently, the US military has confirmed executing strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile launch sites and vessels allegedly preparing to lay mines. Washington has characterized these actions as self-defense measures while continuing to support ceasefire efforts.
President Donald Trump expressed that the potential agreement would be either “great and meaningful” or not materialize at all. He has also called on Middle Eastern countries to join the Abraham Accords and normalize relations with Israel, although it is reported that regional leaders have shown little enthusiasm for the proposal. Meanwhile, a sticking point remains Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. While Tehran has shown a willingness to temporarily lower enrichment levels, it has rejected demands to transfer its uranium reserves abroad. Iran is also pursuing the release of billions of dollars in frozen assets held overseas.
Iranian officials have pointed to political divisions within the United States, including criticism from Congress and segments of the Republican Party, as factors exerting pressure on the White House and further complicating the negotiation process. Notably, the proposed agreement currently does not encompass Iran’s ballistic missile program or its support for regional armed groups, making it less comprehensive compared to earlier US demands.