Despite advancements in negotiations, Iran has dismissed assertions that a comprehensive agreement with the United States is nearing completion, citing several unresolved issues. Esmail Baghaei, the spokesperson for Iran’s foreign ministry, confirmed progress on numerous fronts but emphasized that a final deal remains uncertain. He attributed the delay to inconsistent messages from Washington and interference from Israel.
The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping is a central topic in the discussions. Iran has clarified its stance, stating it does not intend to impose tolls on ships. Instead, it may implement charges for navigational and environmental protection services, in collaboration with Oman. Furthermore, Iran has stipulated that any accord must encompass a ceasefire in Lebanon and the lifting of restrictions on its ports and shipping activities.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio characterized the ongoing discussions as significant, with a proposal that includes a ceasefire and a subsequent 30-day period for Iran to clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz, reinstating full maritime access. Meanwhile, the US military confirmed strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile launch sites and boats allegedly poised to deploy mines, actions described by Washington as self-defense while affirming support for ceasefire efforts.
President Donald Trump has declared that the final agreement would be either substantial and meaningful or nonexistent. He further urged Middle Eastern nations to join the Abraham Accords and normalize relations with Israel, although there appears to be limited interest from regional leaders in this proposal. An additional sticking point remains Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium, with Tehran open to temporarily reducing enrichment levels but refusing to transfer its uranium stockpile abroad. Iran is also pressing for the release of billions of dollars in overseas frozen assets.
Iranian representatives argue that internal political divisions within the US, including criticism from Congress and segments of the Republican Party, are exerting pressure on the White House, complicating negotiations. Notably, the proposed agreement does not address Iran’s ballistic missile program or its support for regional armed groups, rendering it less comprehensive than prior US demands.