Key Details, Uncertainties Surrounding the Emerging US-Iran Agreement to End the War and Reopen the Strait of Hormuz
Cairo: An agreement is reportedly taking shape between the United States and Iran aimed at concluding the ongoing conflict and reopening the vital Strait of Hormuz. U.S. President Donald Trump indicated over the weekend that the negotiations have reached a significant stage.
The timeline and specifics of how this deal will be finalized remain uncertain. Trump made his remarks following discussions with Middle Eastern allies, including a separate conversation with Israeli officials. Insights into the negotiations were provided by two regional officials and a U.S. official, who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the talks.
Current State of Negotiations
In the past 12 weeks, following the initiation of hostilities by the U.S. and Israel against Iran—resulting in the deaths of high-ranking officials, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei—Iran has maintained that any agreement must address the cessation of fighting across all fronts. This includes the situation in Lebanon, where the Iranian-backed Hezbollah has been engaged in conflict with Israel since the war began.
A tenuous ceasefire has been in effect since April 7. Ending the war would alleviate regional tensions and allow for the resumption of global shipping, which includes approximately 20% of the world’s oil and natural gas transported through the Strait of Hormuz. It would also facilitate the reconstruction of energy and other infrastructure in the affected areas.
Key Provisions of the Draft Agreement
According to the regional officials, the draft agreement includes provisions for ending the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, along with a commitment to refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of regional nations, including Iran. This aspect is particularly significant given Iran’s support for various proxy groups, such as the Houthi rebels in Yemen, Hamas in Gaza, and Shiite militias in Iraq.
The U.S. aims to ensure that Israel retains the ability to respond to perceived threats in Lebanon, a point that Iran opposes. The U.S. official confirmed that the agreement would affirm Israel’s right to act in self-defense against imminent threats.
Concerns Over Iran’s Nuclear Program
The U.S. and Israel’s military actions against Iran have been justified by concerns over Iran’s nuclear and missile programs, as well as its backing of armed proxies. However, Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz has quickly escalated into a significant global issue, with numerous vessels carrying essential supplies stranded.
Under the proposed agreement, the Strait would gradually reopen as the U.S. lifts its blockade on Iranian ports, which was implemented on April 17. This blockade has severely restricted Iran’s ability to export oil and generate crucial revenue for its struggling economy.
The U.S. is expected to permit Iran to sell oil through sanctions waivers, as indicated by one official familiar with the negotiations. Discussions regarding sanctions relief and the release of Iran’s billions in frozen assets are anticipated to occur over a 60-day timeframe.
Iran’s Uranium Stockpile and Future Negotiations
Iran’s nuclear program remains a focal point of international concern, particularly regarding its potential pursuit of nuclear weapons. The U.S. and Israel have contemplated complex military operations aimed at neutralizing Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium.
As part of the potential deal, Tehran would agree to relinquish its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. The specifics of how this would be executed are expected to be negotiated during the 60-day period. Some of the uranium may be diluted, while the remainder could be transferred to a third country, possibly Russia, which has expressed willingness to accept it.
A U.S. official confirmed the 60-day negotiation period, stating that if Iran fails to surrender its stockpile, there will be no sanctions relief.
As of now, Iran possesses approximately 440.9 kilograms (972 pounds) of uranium enriched to 60% purity, which is a short technical step from weapons-grade levels of 90%, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Iran asserts its “inalienable” right to nuclear technology, maintaining that its program is peaceful. President Masoud Pezeshkian stated on state television that Iran is prepared to assure the world that it is not pursuing nuclear weapons.
Outstanding Issues and Future Considerations
Trump remarked on social media that the U.S.-Iran relationship is becoming “much more professional and productive,” emphasizing that Iran must understand it cannot develop or procure nuclear weapons.
Several critical issues remain unaddressed in the emerging agreement, including the status of Iran’s uranium enrichment and its missile program, which Israel has sought to dismantle.
While the U.S. and Israel initially aimed to encourage regime change in Tehran following widespread protests earlier in the year, discussions regarding leadership change appear to be off the table.
Furthermore, there is no indication that the agreement will include provisions for the withdrawal of U.S. forces from the region or reparations for damages incurred during the conflict.
As reported by www.emirates247.com.
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Published on 2026-05-25 12:10:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk