Iran has dismissed recent claims that it is on the brink of reaching a significant agreement with the United States, clarifying that several critical issues remain unresolved despite some progress in their discussions. Esmail Baghaei, a spokesperson for Iran’s foreign ministry, acknowledged that while both nations have found common ground on numerous points, a final deal is far from certain. He attributed the delays to conflicting statements from Washington and alleged interference by Israel.
The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping has emerged as a central topic in the negotiations. Iran has reassured that it does not intend to impose tolls on vessels but highlighted the possibility of charging fees for navigational and environmental protection services, in collaboration with Oman. Additionally, Iran emphasized that any prospective agreement must involve a ceasefire in Lebanon and the removal of restrictions on Iranian ports and shipping activities.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has confirmed that talks are ongoing, describing the current proposal as substantial. The framework reportedly entails a 30-day period following a ceasefire, during which Iran would be expected to clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz and ensure full maritime access is restored. Concurrently, the US military has conducted strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile launch sites and boats allegedly preparing to lay mines. The US administration has justified these actions as self-defense measures while expressing continued support for ceasefire efforts.
President Donald Trump has commented on the potential agreement, stating that it must be “great and meaningful” or there will be no deal at all. He also urged several Middle Eastern nations to join the Abraham Accords and establish normalized relations with Israel, although reports indicate regional leaders have shown limited interest in this proposal. Meanwhile, a critical sticking point remains Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. While Tehran has expressed willingness to temporarily reduce enrichment levels, it has firmly rejected the demand to transfer its uranium stockpile abroad. Iran is also seeking the release of billions of dollars in frozen assets held overseas.
Iranian officials have pointed to internal political divisions within the US, including criticism from Congress and factions of the Republican Party, as factors adding pressure on the White House and complicating the negotiation process. Notably, the proposed agreement does not address Iran’s ballistic missile program or its support for regional armed groups, making it less comprehensive than earlier US demands.