Iran has dismissed reports suggesting that a significant accord with the United States is on the verge of completion, citing unresolved issues despite advancements in negotiations. Esmail Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran’s foreign ministry, noted that while mutual understandings have been reached on numerous topics, a final deal remains uncertain. He attributed delays to mixed messages from Washington and interference from Israel.
Central to the discussions is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping. Iran has clarified it does not intend to impose tolls on vessels but may levy charges for navigational and environmental protection services in collaboration with Oman. Additionally, Iran is firm on including a ceasefire in Lebanon and lifting restrictions on its ports and shipping activities as part of any agreement.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio characterized the ongoing talks as significant, with the proposed framework involving a 30-day ceasefire period during which Iran would clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz and restore full maritime access. Concurrently, the US military has conducted strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile launch sites and boats allegedly preparing to lay mines, actions that Washington describes as defensive while continuing to support ceasefire efforts.
President Donald Trump emphasized that the final agreement must be “great and meaningful” or there will be no deal. He also encouraged several Middle Eastern nations to join the Abraham Accords to normalize relations with Israel, though regional leaders have reportedly shown limited interest in this proposal.
An additional sticking point in the negotiations is Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. While Tehran has expressed willingness to temporarily reduce enrichment levels, it has refused 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 political discord within the US, including criticism from Congress and factions of the Republican Party, is exerting pressure on the White House and complicating the negotiation process. Notably, the proposed agreement does not address Iran’s ballistic missile program or its support for regional armed groups, rendering it less comprehensive than previous US demands.