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Trump claims Iran agreement largely complete
US President Donald Trump stated on Saturday that negotiations with Iran have reached an advanced stage, with a formal announcement expected soon. The proposed deal includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route, though specifics remain undisclosed.
Regional leaders consulted on peace framework
Trump revealed he held discussions with leaders from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and other nations regarding a "Memorandum of Understanding pertaining to PEACE." He described the call as "very good" and confirmed final details were under discussion.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also spoke with Trump, with the White House describing their conversation as productive. Trump reiterated that any agreement would ensure Iran cannot develop nuclear weapons.
Iran confirms progress but warns of hurdles
An Iranian foreign ministry spokesman, Esmail Baghaei, acknowledged convergence in US-Iran talks over the past week but cautioned that key disagreements persist. He accused Washington of issuing "contradictory statements" and outlined Tehran's goal of a 14-point framework agreement.
"Our intention is to reach an agreement in the form of a framework... Further talks could be held within 30 to 60 days," Baghaei told state television.
Esmail Baghaei, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman
Ceasefire follows escalation in Strait of Hormuz
The diplomatic push follows a February 28 US-Israel strike on Iran, which triggered regional conflict. Iran retaliated by targeting Israel and Gulf allies, then leveraged its control of the Strait of Hormuz to disrupt global energy supplies, prompting a US-led blockade of Iranian ports.
US Central Command (Centcom) reported redirecting 100 vessels, disabling four, and permitting 26 humanitarian ships since April 13. Centcom commander Adm. Brad Cooper claimed the blockade had "squeezed Iran economically" by halting all trade.
Regional reactions and next steps
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised Trump's "extraordinary efforts" and offered to host the next round of talks. Meanwhile, Iran asserted military control over the Strait of Hormuz, demanding ships seek authorization-a claim rejected by the US and Gulf allies.
Trump canceled personal plans to remain in Washington during the negotiations, citing the "important period." Last week, he described the truce as fragile after rejecting Iran's demands as "totally unacceptable."
