Amidst ongoing negotiations, Iran has dismissed claims that it is on the verge of finalizing a significant agreement with the United States, citing several unresolved issues. While there has been progress, according to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei, a definitive deal remains elusive. Baghaei pointed to inconsistent statements from Washington and interference from Israel as factors hindering the talks.
A central issue in the discussions is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping. Although Iran denies plans to impose tolls on passing ships, it has indicated that fees for navigational and environmental protection services might be levied in collaboration with Oman. Additionally, Iran is adamant that any agreement must include a ceasefire in Lebanon and the lifting of restrictions on its ports and shipping activities.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has described the ongoing discussions as significant, emphasizing the proposal’s potential impact. The proposed framework reportedly outlines a 30-day period following a ceasefire during which Iran would be responsible for clearing mines from the Strait of Hormuz to ensure full maritime access. Concurrently, the US military has confirmed conducting strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile launch sites and boats allegedly readying to lay mines. Washington has justified these actions as self-defense while remaining supportive of ceasefire efforts.
President Donald Trump has stated that any final agreement must be “great and meaningful,” otherwise, there will be no deal. He has also encouraged Middle Eastern nations to join the Abraham Accords and normalize relations with Israel, although there appears to be limited interest from regional leaders. Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium remains a contentious point. While Tehran has shown a willingness to temporarily reduce enrichment levels, it has refused to transfer its uranium stockpile abroad, seeking instead the release of billions of dollars in frozen overseas assets.
Iranian officials have argued that internal political divisions within the United States, including criticism from Congress and some Republican Party segments, are putting pressure on the White House, further complicating negotiations. The current proposal does not address Iran’s ballistic missile program or its support for regional armed groups, making it less comprehensive than previous US demands.