Iran has refuted reports of an impending major agreement with the United States, emphasizing that despite advancements in negotiations, several crucial issues remain unsettled. According to Esmail Baghaei, the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, while there is mutual understanding on numerous fronts, a conclusive deal is not yet within reach. He attributed the delays to contradictory statements emanating from Washington and interference by Israel, which he claims have hindered progress.
The discussions are primarily centered on the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping. Iran has clarified its position, stating that it does not intend to impose tolls on ships transiting the strait but is considering levying fees for navigational and environmental protection services in cooperation with Oman. Additionally, Iran demands that any agreement encompasses a ceasefire in Lebanon and the removal of restrictions on Iranian ports and shipping operations.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has indicated that talks are ongoing, describing the proposal under consideration as significant. The framework reportedly outlines a 30-day period following a ceasefire during which Iran would be expected to clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz, thereby restoring full maritime access. Meanwhile, the U.S. military has confirmed conducting strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile launch sites and boats allegedly poised to lay mines, actions Washington justifies as self-defense while it continues to advocate for ceasefire efforts.
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 has also urged several Middle Eastern nations to join the Abraham Accords and establish normalized relations with Israel. However, reports suggest regional leaders have shown little enthusiasm for this initiative. A remaining point of contention is Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. While Tehran has expressed willingness to temporarily lower enrichment levels, it has rejected calls to transfer its uranium stockpile abroad. Iran is also seeking the release of billions of dollars in overseas frozen assets.
Iranian officials contend that political discord within the U.S., including opposition from Congress and certain factions of the Republican Party, is exerting pressure on the White House, thereby complicating the negotiation process. Notably, the proposed agreement does not cover Iran’s ballistic missile program or its support for regional militant groups, rendering it less comprehensive than previous U.S. demands.