Iran has dismissed claims of an imminent major agreement with the United States, citing unresolved key issues despite some progress in ongoing negotiations. Esmail Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran’s foreign ministry, acknowledged that while both parties have reached an understanding on various points, a final deal remains uncertain. He attributed the delay to inconsistent statements from Washington and interference from Israel.
A central topic of these discussions is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial vessels. Iran has clarified that it does not intend to impose tolls on passing ships but may charge for navigational and environmental protection services, working in coordination with Oman. Additionally, Iran emphasized that any deal 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, with the proposed framework reportedly including a 30-day period after a ceasefire during which Iran would clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz and restore full maritime access. Meanwhile, the US military has confirmed it conducted strikes in southern Iran targeting missile launch sites and boats allegedly preparing to lay mines, actions described as self-defense while supporting ceasefire efforts.
President Donald Trump stated that any final agreement would need to be “great and meaningful,” otherwise, there would be no deal. He also encouraged several Middle Eastern nations to join the Abraham Accords and normalize relations with Israel, although the response from regional leaders has reportedly been lukewarm. Another sticking point in negotiations is Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium, with Tehran showing some willingness to temporarily reduce enrichment levels but firmly rejecting demands to transfer its stockpile abroad. Iran is also seeking the release of billions of dollars in frozen assets held overseas.
Iranian officials argue that political divisions within the United States, including criticism from Congress and elements of the Republican Party, are adding pressure on the White House and complicating negotiations. The proposed agreement currently excludes considerations regarding Iran’s ballistic missile program and its support for regional armed groups, rendering it less comprehensive than previous US demands.