Iran has dismissed claims that it is on the brink of finalizing a significant agreement with the United States, citing ongoing unresolved issues despite some progress in negotiations. According to Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, while there is an understanding on various points, a conclusive deal remains elusive. Baghaei attributed the delay to conflicting statements from U.S. officials and interference from Israel, which he claims have impeded the negotiation process.
A central element of these discussions is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping. Iran has clarified that it does not intend to impose tolls on ships passing through the strait. However, it might introduce charges 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 removal of restrictions on Iranian ports and shipping activities.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that talks are ongoing and described the current proposal as significant. The proposed framework outlines a 30-day period after a ceasefire during which Iran would undertake the removal of mines from the Strait of Hormuz, thereby restoring full maritime access. Concurrently, the U.S. military has conducted strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile launch sites and boats reportedly preparing to lay mines. Washington justified these actions as self-defense while continuing to support ongoing ceasefire efforts.
President Donald Trump has stated that the final outcome of the negotiations would either be “great and meaningful” or there would be no deal at all. He has also encouraged several Middle Eastern nations to join the Abraham Accords and normalize relations with Israel, although reports suggest regional leaders have shown little interest in the proposal. Meanwhile, another sticking point remains 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, also seeking the release of billions of dollars in frozen overseas assets.
Iranian officials have pointed to internal political divisions within the U.S., including criticism from Congress and parts of the Republican Party, as factors intensifying pressure on the White House, complicating the negotiation process. The proposed agreement does not currently address Iran’s ballistic missile program or its support for regional armed groups, making it less comprehensive than what the U.S. initially demanded.