Washington says talks with Iran are progressing, but key issues over nuclear policy, sanctions, and the Strait of Hormuz remain unresolved.
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US President Donald Trump said America will take its time before signing any agreement with Iran. He stressed that the US naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz will stay in place until a final deal is completed and officially approved.
A day earlier, Trump said both sides had mostly agreed on a framework for peace. The proposed deal could reopen the Strait of Hormuz, an important shipping route for global oil and gas supplies.
However, US officials later said that several key issues are still unresolved. These include Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, and the release of frozen Iranian funds.
According to US officials, Iran has agreed in principle to reopen the strait and reduce its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. In return, Washington may ease naval restrictions and discuss lifting some sanctions.
Iran has not officially confirmed the agreement. Iranian media reports say negotiations are continuing and important differences remain.
The possible deal has also faced criticism inside the United States. Critics say it appears similar to the 2015 nuclear agreement negotiated under former President Barack Obama, which Trump withdrew from during his first term.
The conflict has already affected global energy markets and shipping routes. Experts warn that normal oil and gas flows through the Strait of Hormuz may not fully recover until 2027.
