The United States and Iran are reportedly nearing a comprehensive deal that would end the ongoing war, facilitate the reopening of the crucial Strait of Hormuz, and see Iran relinquish its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, though President Trump urges caution.
The United States is close to finalizing a deal with Iran, according to regional officials, aimed at ending the war, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and having Iran surrender its highly enriched uranium. This agreement comes amidst a global energy crisis triggered by previous U.S. and Israeli actions against Iran, which led to Tehran effectively closing the strait. The U.S. has maintained a blockade on Iranian ports, which will remain until a deal is certified. Key components of the emerging deal include Iran giving up its 440.9 kilograms (972 pounds) of uranium enriched to 60% purity, a level close to weapons-grade. A 60-day period is allocated for further talks on how this uranium would be diluted or transferred to a third country, with Russia having offered to take it. Sanctions relief and the release of Iran's frozen funds are also part of these negotiations. Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated readiness to assure the world of its peaceful nuclear intentions. The Strait of Hormuz would gradually reopen in parallel with the U.S. lifting its blockade, allowing Iran to resume oil sales through sanctions waivers. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted 'significant progress' in negotiations, outlining a two-stage process: first, the full reopening of the strait, followed by serious talks on Iran's nuclear pledge, long-term enrichment restrictions, and the disposition of enriched uranium. President Trump, however, has advised against rushing and seeks greater concessions than the 2015 Obama-era agreement. The draft deal also reportedly includes an end to the war between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon, which began shortly after the Iran war. Despite a ceasefire since April 7, skirmishes continue. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Trump have agreed that any final deal must eliminate the nuclear danger and affirm Israel's right to self-defense, particularly concerning Hezbollah, which Israel views as a significant threat. Over 3,000 people have been killed in the recent fighting in Lebanon.
