CAIRO (AP) — The United States is reportedly on the verge of finalizing a deal with Iran that aims to end the ongoing conflict, reopen the crucial Strait of Hormuz, and compel Iran to relinquish its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. This dialogue has been confirmed by regional officials to The Associated Press recently, although U.S. President Donald Trump has advised representatives not to rush toward a conclusion.
Trump noted that negotiations are “progressing in an orderly and constructive manner,” suggesting an increasingly professional and productive relationship between the U.S. and Iran. In light of some criticisms from fellow Republicans advocating for a more aggressive approach, Trump stated the process should not be hurried.
Although a decision on the agreement will not be made this Sunday, sources familiar with the negotiations indicated that previous attempts have brought both sides close to a deal, only to see progress stall. The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a significant waterway for global oil shipments, is expected to alleviate a worldwide energy crisis that has resulted from U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran, which commenced on February 28. This closure has led to skyrocketing prices for oil, gas, and affiliated commodities, with experts predicting a recovery period that could last several weeks or even months once the strait is reopened.
For over a month, the U.S. has maintained a blockade on Iranian ports. Trump remarked that this blockade will remain effective until a comprehensive agreement is not only reached but also certified and signed. The current discussions reportedly involve Iran agreeing to relinquish its stockpile of highly enriched uranium within a 60-day window post-agreement, with options including dilution and transfer to a third nation, potentially Russia.
An anonymous U.S. official confirmed the 60-day timeline, asserting that failure by Iran to surrender its uranium will result in no sanctions relief. As of now, Iran possesses approximately 440.9 kilograms (972 pounds) of uranium enriched to 60% purity, which is a technical step away from weapons-grade enrichment levels of 90%. Despite the negotiations, Iran has not publicly committed to yield its uranium, although President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated they are prepared to assure the international community of their non-aggressive nuclear intentions.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, during a recent visit to India, expressed that “significant progress, although not final,” has been made in the discussions, asserting that the world need not fear Iran acquiring a nuclear weapon. Regarding next steps, Rubio emphasized that the imminent reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is a priority, alongside serious negotiations regarding Iran’s commitment to peace and restrictions on its enrichment capabilities.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei remarked that “narrowing differences” are observed between Iranian and U.S. positions, albeit with Iran remaining cautious given previous aggressive actions during important discussions. The emerging agreement encircles the gradual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz in tandem with the U.S. lifting its blockade, with potential sanctions waivers for Iranian oil sales being part of the negotiations.
The agreement also includes provisions to bring about an end to the war between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon, which has wreaked havoc since the onset of the conflict. Over the last twelve weeks, U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran have resulted in significant casualties, including the death of Tehran's supreme leader among others, with current estimates indicating over 3,000 civilian casualties in Lebanon alone since the fighting began.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu conveyed through social media that any final agreement must neutralize the nuclear threat posed by Iran, stressing that Trump reaffirmed Israel’s right to defend itself on all fronts, particularly concerning Lebanon. Officials from Israel continue to express concern regarding the substantial threat Hezbollah poses and the implications of disarming the group amidst ongoing hostilities.
In summary, the negotiations between the U.S. and Iran are witnessing cautious optimism. The potential agreement represents a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern politics, with significant ramifications for regional security and international relations, particularly regarding nuclear proliferation and energy stability.
