The Iranian government has refuted assertions that a significant agreement with the United States is nearing completion, citing unresolved issues despite advancements in negotiations. Foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei mentioned that while both parties have reached a consensus on numerous points, declaring a final deal as imminent would be premature. Baghaei attributed the delays to conflicting messages from Washington and interference by Israel.
A central element of the discussions is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping. Iran clarified that it does not intend to impose tolls on passing ships but may levy charges for navigational and environmental services, in partnership with Oman. Additionally, Iran emphasized that any agreement must include a ceasefire in Lebanon and the lifting of restrictions on Iranian ports and shipping activities.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged ongoing talks, describing the current proposal as significant. The proposed framework suggests a 30-day period after a ceasefire during which Iran would be responsible for removing mines from the Strait of Hormuz, thereby restoring full maritime access. In the meantime, the US military has confirmed conducting strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile launch sites and boats allegedly preparing to lay mines. Washington has characterized these actions as self-defensive, while still expressing support for the ceasefire initiatives.
President Donald Trump has stated that the final agreement will either be “great and meaningful” or not occur at all. He also encouraged several Middle Eastern countries to join the Abraham Accords and normalize relations with Israel, though regional leaders reportedly expressed little interest in this proposal. Another unresolved issue pertains to Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Tehran has shown willingness to temporarily lower enrichment levels but rejected demands to transfer its uranium stockpile abroad. Iran is also advocating for the release of billions of dollars in frozen assets held overseas.
Iranian officials have argued that internal political divisions within the United States, including criticism from Congress and parts of the Republican Party, are increasing pressure on the White House and further complicating the negotiations. The proposed agreement currently does not address Iran’s ballistic missile program or its support for regional armed groups, making it less comprehensive than previous US demands.