U.S. President Donald Trump convened a White House Situation Room meeting with his advisers but remains undecided on extending the Iran ceasefire and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Iran confirmed the agreement is not yet finalized, signaling complexity in negotiations.
Prior to the meeting, Trump expressed intent to make a strategic decision. An administration official revealed the two-hour session concluded without a decision. Trump emphasized any agreement must align with his stipulations aimed at curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
“Iran must agree that they will never have a Nuclear Weapon or Bomb,” Trump stated on social media.
Negotiations, which have tentatively extended the ceasefire by 60 days, will focus on Iran’s nuclear program. Trump insists the strait must be opened for navigation and all sea mines removed.
Iran’s Chief Negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, stressed skepticism regarding assurances. He indicated actions, not words, drive negotiations.
Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman, Esmail Baghaei, echoed the unresolved status of nuclear issues, emphasizing peace over nuclear specifics.
Iran is advocating for a ceasefire with Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon and seeks unfrozen financial assets. Ebrahim Azizi of Iran’s national security commission insists on equal terms in negotiations.
The International Atomic Energy Agency reports Iran holds substantial uranium, nearing weapons-grade purity. Despite peaceful claims, Trump demands its removal.
The proposed memorandum stipulates no tolls or mines in the Strait of Hormuz, critical for international oil transport. In return, U.S. would ease sanctions, facilitating Iranian oil sales.
Recent discussions between Iranian and Omani officials reflect mutual interests in managing the strait. Tensions with the U.S. prompted by potential joint control remain high.
The strait’s closure resulted from military actions in February, disrupting global oil traffic and inflating fuel prices. Though some vessels pass, Iran’s establishment of tolls and regulatory authority prompted additional U.S. sanctions.
During the ceasefire, both nations exchanged military strikes, accusing each other of violations without rekindling full hostilities.
Associated Press writers Jennifer Peltz and Farnoush Amiri in New York, and Matthew Lee in Washington contributed to this report.