Iran has dismissed claims of an imminent major agreement with the United States, with Iranian officials stating that significant issues remain unresolved despite making progress in recent negotiations. Esmail Baghaei, a spokesperson for Iran’s foreign ministry, highlighted that while there has been understanding on many points, a final deal is far from certain. He attributed the delay to conflicting messages from Washington and interference from Israel.
The discussions have focused heavily on reopening the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping. Iran has clarified that it is not considering imposing tolls on passing vessels but may introduce fees for navigational and environmental protection services in collaboration with Oman. Furthermore, Iran has emphasized that any agreement must include a ceasefire in Lebanon and the lifting of restrictions on Iranian ports and shipping activities.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio characterized the ongoing talks as significant, with a framework proposal that includes a 30-day period following a ceasefire during which Iran would clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz to restore full maritime access. Meanwhile, the US military has confirmed executing strikes in southern Iran targeting missile launch sites and vessels allegedly preparing to lay mines, describing these actions as self-defense while supporting ceasefire initiatives.
President Donald Trump has stated that any final agreement must be “great and meaningful,” otherwise, there would be no deal. He also encouraged Middle Eastern nations to join the Abraham Accords and normalize relations with Israel, though regional leaders reportedly showed minimal interest. Among the unresolved issues is Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. While Iran has expressed willingness to temporarily reduce enrichment levels, it has rejected calls to transfer its uranium abroad. Additionally, Tehran is seeking the release of billions of dollars in frozen assets overseas.
Iranian officials have pointed to political divisions within the United States, including criticism from Congress and parts of the Republican Party, as factors complicating the negotiations and pressuring the White House. Notably, the proposed agreement does not address Iran’s ballistic missile program or its support for regional armed groups, making it less comprehensive than previous US demands.