US officials outline potential Iran agreement – Axios

(SeaPRwire) –   Iran has indicated that both parties are nearing a “convergence of views,” though it voiced apprehension regarding a potential policy reversal by Washington

According to American officials cited by Axios, the United States and Iran are expected to finalize an agreement that would extend the current ceasefire by 60 days. This period would see the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the removal of oil trade restrictions against Tehran. During this interim, both nations aim to negotiate a comprehensive resolution to the conflict.

On Saturday, US President Donald Trump stated that a memorandum of understanding (MOU) was “largely negotiated” and is now in its final stages. Concurrently, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei remarked that the parties were approaching a “convergence of views,” but highlighted Tehran’s ongoing apprehension about a potential shift in Washington’s stance.

A delicate truce between Washington and Tehran was put in place in early April, following a month of intense hostilities that began with actions by the US and Israel. Since its inception, Trump has consistently warned Iran of renewed attacks should it fail to make concessions.

An Axios article on Sunday indicated that the MOU would include the reopening of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway responsible for approximately 25% of global crude trade, to all vessels without imposing any tolls.

In return, Washington would lift its blockade on Iranian ports and permit Tehran to sell oil without restrictions, according to the sources.

The sources further stated that during the two-month ceasefire, which is subject to extension by mutual agreement, both parties would enter into discussions regarding the Iranian nuclear program.

US officials indicated that the proposed MOU also contemplates the cessation of the Israeli military campaign against Hezbollah in Lebanon, a campaign initiated by West Jerusalem soon after the assault on Iran.

They also mentioned that the removal of other economic sanctions against Tehran and the unfreezing of Iranian assets would only occur as part of a definitive agreement.

In a television interview, Baghaei stated that the ongoing talks between the US and Iran “focus broadly on ending the war” and halting what he described as “US piracy and maritime banditry.”

He asserted that the Strait of Hormuz “has nothing to do with America,” arguing that it is the prerogative of the coastal states – Iran and Oman – to establish a mechanism for its utilization.

The spokesman clarified that “At this stage, we are not discussing the details of the nuclear issue,” but indicated that it would likely be addressed later during the ceasefire period.

Baghaei stated that the removal of “illegal and inhumane” sanctions and the unfreezing of Iranian funds continue to be Tehran’s “constant demand” in its communications with intermediaries.