Iran has refuted claims that it is on the brink of reaching a major agreement with the United States, pointing out that several critical issues remain unresolved despite some progress in negotiations. Esmail Baghaei, a spokesperson for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, noted that while there has been mutual understanding on numerous points, it is premature to declare a final deal imminent. He attributed the delay to conflicting statements from Washington and interference by Israel, which he says are complicating the process.
A significant aspect of the ongoing discussions is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping. Iran has clarified that while it does not intend to impose tolls on passing ships, it may levy charges for navigational and environmental protection services in collaboration with Oman. In addition, Iran is firm on the inclusion of a ceasefire in Lebanon and the lifting of restrictions on Iranian ports and shipping activities as part of any agreement.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has characterized the ongoing discussions as significant, mentioning that the proposed framework includes a 30-day period following a ceasefire during which Iran would clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz and restore full maritime access. Meanwhile, the US military has confirmed conducting strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile launch sites and boats allegedly preparing to lay mines, actions which Washington has labeled as self-defense while maintaining its support for the ongoing ceasefire efforts.
President Donald Trump has stated that the final agreement must be either “great and meaningful” or there will be no deal at all. He has also encouraged several Middle Eastern countries to join the Abraham Accords to normalize relations with Israel, although this proposal reportedly received little interest from regional leaders. Another sticking point in the negotiations is Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. While Tehran has shown some willingness to temporarily reduce enrichment levels, it has firmly rejected demands to transfer its uranium stockpile overseas. Iran is also seeking the release of billions of dollars in frozen assets held abroad.
Iranian officials argue that internal political divisions within the United States, including criticism from Congress and factions 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, rendering it less comprehensive than previous US demands.