Iran has dismissed reports suggesting that a significant agreement with the United States is on the verge of completion, citing unresolved issues that continue to impede the progress of negotiations. Esmail Baghaei, the spokesperson for Iran’s foreign ministry, acknowledged that while there has been an understanding on many points, it is premature to declare that a final deal is within reach. He attributed the delays to contradictory statements from Washington and alleged interference by Israel.
A central aspect of the discussions is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping. Iran has clarified its intentions, noting that while it does not plan to impose tolls on passing ships, it may levy fees for providing navigational and environmental protection services in collaboration with Oman. Furthermore, Iran has stipulated that any agreement should encompass a ceasefire in Lebanon and the lifting of certain restrictions on its ports and maritime operations.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has characterized the ongoing discussions as significant, with the framework reportedly including a 30-day window following a ceasefire for Iran to clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz and ensure full maritime access. Meanwhile, the US military has confirmed conducting operations in southern Iran, targeting missile launch sites and vessels suspected of mine-laying activities. These actions were described by Washington as self-defense measures, while the US continues to support ceasefire efforts.
In parallel, US President Donald Trump emphasized that any finalized agreement would need to be “great and meaningful,” otherwise, no deal would be pursued. He also encouraged several Middle Eastern nations to join the Abraham Accords and establish normalized relations with Israel, although there appears to be limited interest from regional leaders. The negotiations face further complications from Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Tehran has shown openness to temporarily lowering enrichment levels but remains firm against transferring its uranium stockpile abroad. Iran is also advocating for the release of billions of dollars in frozen assets held in foreign accounts.
Iranian officials have pointed out that political divisions within the United States, including opposition from Congress and some factions of the Republican Party, are adding pressure on the White House and further complicating the negotiation process. Notably, the current proposal does not address Iran’s ballistic missile program or its backing of regional armed groups, rendering it less comprehensive than past demands from the US.