Iran has rejected assertions that it is on the brink of finalizing a significant agreement with the United States, highlighting that several critical issues remain unresolved despite advancements in negotiations. Esmail Baghaei, the spokesperson for Iran’s foreign ministry, acknowledged that both parties have reached consensus on numerous points. However, he emphasized that a final deal is not yet within reach, attributing the delay partly to conflicting messages from Washington and interference from Israel.
The negotiations have centered significantly on the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping. Iran has clarified it has no intention of imposing tolls on vessels passing through but may levy fees for navigational and environmental protection services in collaboration with Oman. Additionally, Iran has stipulated that any agreement must encompass a ceasefire in Lebanon and the lifting of restrictions on its ports and shipping operations.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has characterized the ongoing discussions as crucial, noting that the proposal includes a framework for a 30-day period post-ceasefire during which Iran would clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz to restore complete maritime access. Concurrently, the US military confirmed conducting strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile launch sites and boats suspected of preparing to deploy mines. Washington has described these actions as defensive measures while continuing to support ceasefire initiatives.
President Donald Trump has stated that the final agreement will either be “great and meaningful” or there will be no deal at all. He has also encouraged various Middle Eastern nations to join the Abraham Accords and normalize relations with Israel, though regional leaders have reportedly shown limited interest in the proposal. Another sticking point in the negotiations is Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. While Tehran has expressed a willingness to temporarily lower enrichment levels, it has resisted demands to transfer its uranium stockpile abroad. Iran is also seeking the release of billions of dollars in overseas frozen assets.
Iranian officials have pointed to political divisions within the United States, including criticism from Congress and segments of the Republican Party, as factors compounding the pressure on the White House and further complicating negotiations. The proposed agreement notably omits any discussion of Iran’s ballistic missile program or its backing of regional armed groups, rendering it less comprehensive than previous US demands.
