Iran has refuted claims that a significant agreement with the United States is nearing completion, citing unresolved issues despite notable advancements in discussions. Both nations have reached consensus on numerous points, according to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei. However, he emphasized that a definitive deal is not yet within reach. Baghaei attributed the delay to contradictory statements from Washington and interference from Israel.
A key aspect of the negotiations concerns the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping. Iran has clarified that while it does not intend to levy tolls on ships, it may impose fees for navigational and environmental protection services in collaboration with Oman. Additionally, Iran has stressed that any agreement must include a ceasefire in Lebanon and the lifting of restrictions on its ports and shipping activities.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has described ongoing discussions as significant, with the proposed framework reportedly including a 30-day period following a ceasefire during which Iran would clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz to restore full maritime access. Meanwhile, the U.S. military has confirmed conducting strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile launch sites and vessels allegedly preparing to deploy mines. Washington has characterized these actions as self-defense, while still expressing support for ongoing ceasefire initiatives.
President Donald Trump has stated that any final agreement would need to be “great and meaningful,” or there would be no deal at all. He also encouraged more Middle Eastern countries to join the Abraham Accords and establish normal relations with Israel, but regional leaders have reportedly shown limited interest in the proposal. Another sticking point in 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, seeking instead the release of billions of dollars in frozen assets held overseas.
Iranian officials have pointed out that political divisions within the U.S., including criticism from Congress and elements of the Republican Party, are exerting pressure on the White House and further complicating negotiations. The current proposal does not address Iran’s ballistic missile program or its support for regional armed groups, making it less comprehensive than the earlier demands put forth by the United States.