Iran has dismissed claims that a significant agreement with the United States is nearing completion, highlighting that despite progress in talks, several crucial issues remain unresolved. Esmail Baghaei, the foreign ministry spokesperson, communicated that while there is consensus on numerous points, it is premature to declare a final deal is near. He attributed the delay to conflicting messages from Washington and interference from Israel.
The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping stands as a central topic in the negotiations. Iran clarified that while it does not plan to impose tolls on passing ships, it might levy fees for navigational and environmental protection services, coordinated with Oman. Furthermore, Iran emphasized that any potential agreement must encompass a ceasefire in Lebanon and the removal of restrictions on its ports and shipping activities.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that discussions are ongoing, characterizing the proposal under consideration as substantial. The proposed framework suggests a 30-day period post-ceasefire during which Iran would undertake the removal of mines from the Strait of Hormuz to ensure complete maritime access. Meanwhile, the US military has confirmed conducting strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile launch sites and boats purportedly preparing to deploy mines, with Washington labeling the actions as self-defense while continuing to support ceasefire efforts.
US President Donald Trump remarked that any final agreement would be either “great and meaningful” or non-existent. He also encouraged several Middle Eastern nations to join the Abraham Accords to normalize relations with Israel, though reports suggest regional leaders are not showing much interest. Additionally, Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium remains a contentious issue; Tehran has expressed willingness to temporarily lower enrichment levels but refuses to transfer its uranium stockpile abroad, and is seeking the release of billions in frozen assets overseas.
Iranian officials contend that political divisions within the United States, including criticism from Congress and some Republican Party members, are exerting pressure on the White House, further complicating the negotiations. Notably, the proposed agreement currently overlooks Iran’s ballistic missile program and its support for regional armed groups, making it less comprehensive than earlier US demands.
