Donald Trump announced on Thursday that the United States and Iran may soon reach a significant agreement intended to establish a temporary ceasefire and facilitate discussions on Iran’s nuclear programme. Speaking at the White House, Trump noted that the US had achieved a substantial settlement in its relations with Iran, claiming that only the final documentation was pending before a formal deal could be signed.

However, Iranian officials have issued a warning, stating that no definitive agreement has yet been concluded. The spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, Esmaeil Baghaei, indicated that the proposed deal is still undergoing evaluation by Iranian authorities and asserted that Tehran would not compromise on its established “red lines.”

Despite the apparent differences in public statements, sources involved in the discussions have reported that both parties are largely aligned on a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that would lay out a 60-day ceasefire and provide a structure for ongoing negotiations.

Details of the Proposed Agreement

The agreement aims to extend the existing ceasefire through a 60-day truce, with the option for an extension should both sides agree while discussions continue for a longer-term resolution. This framework is designed to reduce military tensions and enable diplomatic exchanges to take place.

Upon finalising the agreement, the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime route, would be reopened immediately. Iran is expected to facilitate free maritime movement in the waterway, with no tolls or transit fees charged to commercial vessels. Additionally, Iran would remove mines that were laid during the conflict, helping to restore safe navigation. Post-agreement, shipping volumes are anticipated to bounce back to pre-war levels within a month.

In exchange for the ceasefire, the US would relax its blockade on Iranian ports and issue waivers for sanctions, enabling Iran to resume oil exports during the truce. Further relief from sanctions would be contingent on Iran’s adherence to the agreement and progress in ongoing talks. Conversations are also focused on the accessibility of Iranian assets that are frozen internationally, with plans for a mechanism that would allow Iran to utilise some of these funds for humanitarian needs.

Nuclear Commitments and Stipulations

The proposed deal includes commitments from Iran to forgo the development of nuclear weapons and engage in negotiations to suspend its uranium enrichment activities. The future management of Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium is expected to be addressed in subsequent discussions, with options being considered for dilution under United Nations supervision or the transfer of material to a third country.

Any actions relevant to Iran’s nuclear programme would necessitate a supplementary, more detailed agreement. The United States has insisted that Iran must abandon its nuclear ambitions, rectify issues related to its uranium stockpile, and ensure safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Washington has also dismissed any arrangements that could potentially grant Iran control over shipping tolls or require a comprehensive withdrawal of US forces from the region.

On the Iranian side, demands include a more extensive lifting of sanctions, the release of assets currently frozen, assurances against future military actions, and long-term international guarantees linked to any final agreement. While Trump expressed optimism regarding the deal, asserting it addresses core US concerns, Iranian officials maintain their stance, reiterating that they will not concede under pressure and will adhere to their negotiating principles.

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