The Agreement Would Include A Gradual Reopening Of The Strait Of Hormuz, A Commitment To Discuss Iran’s Enriched Uranium Stockpile, Eased Sanctions And A Phased Unfreezing Of Tehran’s Overseas Assets.
Mediators believe they are nearing a deal to extend the US ceasefire with Iran by 60 days and establish a framework for nuclear talks, the Financial Times reported, citing sources.
According to CNBC, the agreement would include a gradual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a commitment to discuss Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium, eased sanctions, and the phased unfreezing of Tehran’s overseas assets. US President Donald Trump will consider Iran’s draft agreement with his advisers and could make a decision on Sunday, Axios reported.
The proposed structure represents a significant shift from the positions both sides held just days ago. As recently as Friday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned any such deal would be “unfeasible” if Iran pursues measures to permanently control shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, saying “no one in the world is in favour of a tolling system. It can’t happen and it would be unacceptable.”
Talks between the US and Iran are being mediated by Pakistan, and issues under discussion include freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s nuclear and ballistic programme, reconstruction and sanctions, and a long-term peace agreement.
A 60-day extension buys both sides more time to negotiate the core disputes that have resisted resolution since the April 8 ceasefire was first brokered by Pakistan. The gradual Hormuz reopening rather than an immediate one is the key concession that appears to have unlocked the framework. Iran preserves influence over the timeline. The US gets the economic pressure of a closed strait removed by stages. Neither side declares victory. Neither side concedes the substance.
A decision on Sunday would be the fastest major diplomatic move of the entire conflict. The ceasefire has been on life support for weeks. This framework, if confirmed, is the first concrete structure that could hold.
To check out our previous coverage on Iran, US and Pakistan mediation, read our articles here.
