Efforts to finalize an agreement between the United States and Iran could soon lead to the cessation of the war and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. President Donald Trump indicated substantial progress had been made, following conversations with Middle Eastern allies, including a separate discussion with Israel.
The sources of this information include two regional officials and one American official, all speaking under anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the negotiations. The proposal encompasses various aspects aimed at resolving ongoing conflicts.
The War’s End
Over the past 12 weeks, hostilities ignited by the U.S. and Israel’s attacks on Iran, which resulted in the death of high-ranking officials such as the Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have intensified Tehran’s demands for ending combat across the region. This includes Lebanon, where Hezbollah, supported by Iran, has been engaged in conflict with Israel since shortly after the war began.
A tentative ceasefire has been in place since April 7. The cessation of war would ease regional tensions, especially in areas previously targeted by missile and drone strikes, such as the United Arab Emirates and other Gulf locations.
The agreement might restore global shipping, enabling the transit of approximately 20% of the world’s oil and natural gas through the Strait of Hormuz. Infrastructure rebuilding throughout the region would also be possible.
Agreement Details
The draft agreement reportedly involves ending the war between Israel and Hezbollah, with parties agreeing not to interfere in each other’s internal matters, including Iranian support for allied forces across the region.
The United States will seek Israel’s ability to respond unimpeded to perceived threats in Lebanon, although Iran disputes this condition. The American official noted that Israel would maintain its right to self-defense against imminent threats.
Gradual Reopening of Hormuz
The Iranian nuclear program, missile development, and support for allied armed forces were the initial justifications for U.S. and Israeli military actions. Subsequently, Tehran’s control of the Strait of Hormuz became a pressing global issue, stranding numerous vessels carrying vital resources.
The agreement outlines the gradual reopening of the strait, coinciding with the lifting by the U.S. of the blockade on Iranian ports from April 17. The blockade has restricted Iran’s oil exports, essential for its struggling economy.
Sanctions exemptions would facilitate oil sales, and the alleviation of sanctions, alongside releasing Iran’s frozen funds, would be negotiated over 60 days, according to one informed official.
Nuclear Provisions
Iran’s nuclear program remains a significant point of contention, with international concerns about a potential nuclear weapon. Under the potential agreement, Iran would relinquish its enriched uranium reserves.
A regional official detailed that delivery methods for this uranium reserve would involve further negotiation, possibly diluting portions and transferring others to a third country, potentially Russia, which has expressed willingness.
A U.S. official confirmed the 60-day timeframe and warned that non-compliance would preclude sanction relief.
Iran currently possesses 440.9 kilograms of enriched uranium at 60% purity, approaching weaponization levels according to the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Despite holding an “inalienable” right to nuclear technology, Iran asserts the program’s peaceful intent. President Masoud Pezeshkian declared readiness to reassure the global community about not pursuing nuclear weapons.
On social media, President Trump highlighted improved relations with Iran but insisted on the prohibition against developing nuclear weapons.
Unresolved Issues
The evolving agreement leaves some topics unaddressed. These include the potential for Iran’s uranium enrichment and its missile capabilities, particularly targeted for destruction by Israel.
Despite initiating war efforts with hopes of public uprising against Iran’s government earlier this year, discussions on leadership change appear absent.
Iran’s prior negotiation goals like U.S. military withdrawal from the region or compensation for war damages seem omitted from current deliberations.
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Reporting contributions from Superville in Washington, D.C., and Anna in Lowville, New York.
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This report was translated from English by an AP editor, using generative AI tools.