Iran has dismissed suggestions that a significant agreement with the United States is nearing completion, citing unresolved issues despite ongoing negotiations. Esmail Baghaei, a spokesperson for Iran’s foreign ministry, acknowledged that while progress has been made on various points, a definitive deal is not yet in sight. He attributed the delays to mixed messages from Washington and interference from Israel.
A key aspect of the discussions involves the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping. Iran has clarified that it does not intend to levy tolls on vessels but might implement fees for navigational and environmental services in partnership with Oman. Additionally, Iran has emphasized that any deal must incorporate a ceasefire in Lebanon and lift restrictions on its ports and shipping operations.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio mentioned that talks are ongoing and described the existing proposal as substantial. The proposed framework suggests a 30-day period following a ceasefire during which Iran would clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz and restore full maritime access. Concurrently, the U.S. military confirmed conducting strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile launch sites and boats allegedly preparing to deploy mines, actions Washington defended as self-defense while supporting the ceasefire efforts.
President Donald Trump stated that the final agreement must be either “great and meaningful” or there would be no deal at all. He also called on several Middle Eastern nations to join the Abraham Accords and establish normal relations with Israel, though regional leaders have reportedly shown little interest. Another sticking point in the negotiations is Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Tehran has expressed a willingness to temporarily reduce enrichment levels but has rejected demands to transfer its uranium stockpile abroad. Moreover, Iran seeks the release of billions of dollars in frozen assets held overseas.
Iranian officials argue that internal political divisions in the U.S., including criticism from Congress and parts of the Republican Party, are putting pressure on the White House, further complicating negotiations. Notably, the current agreement does not address Iran’s ballistic missile program or its support for regional armed groups, making it less comprehensive than previous U.S. demands.