The United States and Iran are reportedly nearing an agreement that could bring an end to the current conflict in the Middle East and reopen the crucial Strait of Hormuz. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Saturday that the deal might be finalized soon, with preparations for electronic signing and technical discussions planned for next week.
While the White House remains silent regarding the negotiation details and the timeline for a deal, Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson has suggested that signing could happen in the coming days, although not on Sunday. Previous pronouncements of breakthroughs have not materialized.
Earlier this week, tensions escalated when Iran exchanged fire with the U.S. and Israel, raising concerns about a potential return to full-scale war. On Friday, U.S. Central Command reported intercepting Iranian attack drones aimed at commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Since the war initiated by the U.S. and Israel on February 28, oil and natural gas shipments from the Persian Gulf have been severely impacted, though a ceasefire has been in effect since April 7.
Iran’s Nuclear Program
Key terms of the agreement include addressing Iran’s nuclear program within 60 days after signing. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the parties could agree to extend this period if necessary. The U.S. and Israel are concerned that Iran’s nuclear program might lead to the development of atomic weapons, despite Tehran’s claims of peaceful intentions.
A senior U.S. administration official revealed that the deal would initiate the process of destroying or removing Tehran’s highly enriched uranium, with technical details to be resolved during the 60 days following the agreement. However, specifics on who would oversee the uranium removal remain undisclosed.
Reopening the Strait of Hormuz
The agreement includes provisions to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for global oil and gas shipments. Araghchi indicated Iran’s interest in implementing a toll system for strait transit, which was previously enforced during the war but deemed illegal by the international community.
Closure of the strait has disrupted global energy supplies, led to increased fuel prices, and heightened costs for essentials like food and fertilizer worldwide.
Sanctions Relief for Iran
According to three regional officials, the deal also involves gradual lifting of sanctions on Iran and the release of frozen Iranian assets. They expect the signing ceremony to occur soon, pending approval from both Washington and Tehran.
Impact on Lebanon
Iran emphasizes that the deal should encompass a ceasefire in Lebanon, where the Israeli military continues to combat the Iranian-backed Hezbollah group. Despite Iran’s stance, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned that Israel might take independent actions against Iran and will not withdraw from occupied territories in Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, or West Bank refugee camps.
Hostilities persist in southern Lebanon as of Saturday.
Associated Press correspondents contributed from various locations including Washington, Tel Aviv, and Savannah.