Iran has refuted assertions that a significant pact with the United States is nearing completion, highlighting that despite advances in negotiations, numerous critical issues remain unresolved. Esmail Baghaei, the foreign ministry spokesperson, acknowledged that both parties have reached consensus on many aspects, yet cautioned that a final agreement is not yet on the horizon. He attributed the delay to conflicting messages from Washington and Israeli interference.
A central point of the discussions involves the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial navigation. Iran has clarified that it has no intention of imposing tolls on passing ships. Instead, it may levy charges for services related to navigation and environmental protection in collaboration with Oman. Moreover, Iran has emphasized that any deal must encompass a ceasefire in Lebanon and the lifting of restrictions on Iranian ports and shipping operations.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has characterized the ongoing discussions as significant, with the proposed framework suggesting a 30-day period post-ceasefire during which Iran would clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz, reinstating complete maritime access. Concurrently, the US military confirmed strikes in southern Iran, aimed at missile launch sites and boats allegedly preparing to deploy mines. Washington defended these actions as self-defense, while continuing to support ceasefire efforts.
US President Donald Trump expressed that the final agreement would be either “great and meaningful” or there would be no agreement at all. Additionally, he encouraged several Middle Eastern nations to join the Abraham Accords and normalize relations with Israel, though regional leaders reportedly showed little enthusiasm for the proposal. Another sticking point in the talks is Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Although Tehran has shown a willingness to temporarily reduce enrichment levels, it rejects demands to transfer its uranium stockpile abroad. Iran is also seeking the release of billions of dollars in frozen assets held overseas.
Iranian officials contend that political divisions within the US, including criticism from Congress and certain factions of the Republican Party, are exerting pressure on the White House and further complicating the negotiations. The current proposal does not address Iran’s ballistic missile program or its backing of regional armed groups, rendering it less comprehensive than previous US demands.
