In the midst of ongoing negotiations between Iran and the United States, Iran has dismissed claims of a near-finalized agreement, citing unresolved issues despite some advancements. Esmail Baghaei, the foreign ministry spokesperson, noted that while there has been understanding on various points, a conclusive deal is not yet on the horizon. He attributed the delays to conflicting statements from Washington and interference by Israel.
A pivotal element of the discussions is ensuring the free passage of commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran emphasized that it does not intend to levy tolls on vessels but may impose fees for navigational and environmental services in partnership with Oman. Furthermore, Iran has made it clear that any agreement must encompass a ceasefire in Lebanon and the removal of restrictions on its ports and shipping operations.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that talks are ongoing, labeling the current proposal as substantial. The outlined framework proposes a 30-day period following a ceasefire during which Iran would clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz, reinstating full maritime access. Concurrently, the US military has acknowledged conducting strikes in southern Iran, targeting locations believed to be preparing for mine deployment, actions described as self-defense while supporting continued ceasefire negotiations.
President Donald Trump has expressed that any final agreement must be “great and meaningful,” warning that without such terms, no deal would be reached. He has also encouraged Middle Eastern nations to join the Abraham Accords to normalize relations with Israel, though reports suggest a lack of enthusiasm from regional leaders. Another contentious point is Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile; Tehran has shown openness to temporarily reducing enrichment levels but has resisted calls to transfer the stockpile abroad. Additionally, Iran is seeking access to billions of dollars in frozen overseas assets.
Iranian representatives argue that internal political strife in the US, including dissent from Congress and sections of the Republican Party, is exerting pressure on the White House and complicating negotiations. Notably, the proposed deal does not cover Iran’s ballistic missile program or its support for regional militant groups, rendering it less comprehensive than previous US expectations.