U.S. and Iran Nearing Agreement to End Hostilities and Reopen Strait of Hormuz

Reports indicate the United States and Iran are nearing a deal to conclude the ongoing conflict and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the deal focusing on ending the Middle East war is closer than ever, with finalization anticipated within 24 hours. An electronic signing is planned, followed by technical discussions next week.

The White House has not provided details about current negotiation statuses or signing timelines. Iran’s foreign ministry clarified that no signing is expected on Sunday, but didn’t rule out future possibilities. Past claims of imminent agreements did not succeed.

Recent exchanges between Iran, the U.S., and Israel raised concerns about escalating into full-scale conflict. U.S. Central Command reported intercepting Iranian drones targeting commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. This conflict, beginning on February 28 by the U.S. and Israel, has disrupted oil and gas shipments in the Persian Gulf. A ceasefire, in place since April 7, remains fragile.

Agreement to Address Iran’s Nuclear Program

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has stated that terms concerning Iran’s nuclear program will be addressed within 60 days post-agreement. This period may be extended if needed. The U.S. and Israel have expressed concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, fearing potential development of atomic weapons. Iran asserts the program is for peaceful purposes.

A senior U.S. official, speaking anonymously, mentioned the agreement involves beginning the dismantling or removal of Tehran’s enriched uranium, with further technical details to be arranged over 60 days. Control over this process remains undecided.

Provisions for Reopening the Strait of Hormuz

The agreement includes reopening the key Strait of Hormuz. Araghchi indicated Iran’s desire to charge ships for transiting services. Iran’s toll system during the conflict has been challenged by the U.S. and others as a violation of international law. Disruptions in the strait have impacted global energy supplies, elevating fuel and basic goods prices worldwide.

Relief from Iranian Sanctions

The proposed deal also incorporates phased sanctions relief and the release of frozen Iranian funds, as indicated by regional officials. An anonymous clarification suggests a signing event will take place following confirmations from both Washington and Tehran.

Uncertain Future for Lebanon

Iran demands inclusion of a ceasefire in Lebanon as part of the deal, where Israel combats Iran-backed Hezbollah forces. Defense Minister Israel Katz warned of potential independent actions by Israel concerning Iran and declared Israel’s ongoing military presence in Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, and the Israeli-occupied West Bank’s northern regions will persist.

Associated Press journalists Michelle L. Price, Aamer Madhani, and Russ Bynum contributed to this report.