Iran has refuted claims suggesting that a significant agreement with the United States is nearing completion, highlighting that several crucial issues remain unresolved despite some progress in negotiations. Esmail Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, stated that while there has been an understanding on various points, it is premature to declare a final deal imminent. Baghaei attributed the delay to inconsistent messages from Washington and interference from Israel.
A pivotal aspect of the discussions is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping. Iran has clarified its stance, indicating that it does not plan to impose tolls on vessels. Instead, it may implement fees for navigational and environmental protection services in collaboration with Oman. Additionally, Tehran emphasized that any agreement must include a ceasefire in Lebanon and the removal of restrictions on Iranian ports and shipping operations.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that talks are ongoing, describing the current proposal as substantial. The framework under consideration includes a 30-day period following a ceasefire, during which Iran would clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz, thereby ensuring full maritime access. Concurrently, the US military has conducted strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile launch sites and boats allegedly preparing to deploy mines. Washington defended these actions as self-defense while continuing to support ceasefire efforts.
President Donald Trump commented on the negotiations, asserting that any final agreement must be “great and meaningful,” or else there would be no deal at all. He also urged several Middle Eastern nations to join the Abraham Accords and normalize relations with Israel. However, regional leaders reportedly showed little enthusiasm for this proposal. Meanwhile, Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium remains a contentious issue. Tehran has expressed willingness to temporarily reduce enrichment levels but has rejected demands to transfer its uranium stockpile abroad. Iran is also seeking the release of billions of dollars in overseas frozen assets.
Iranian officials have pointed to political divisions within the United States, including criticism from Congress and certain Republican Party factions, as factors exacerbating pressure on the White House and complicating the negotiations. The proposed agreement currently does not address Iran’s ballistic missile program or its support for regional armed groups, rendering it less comprehensive than previous US demands.