Trump Considers Key Decisions on Iran Deal and Strait of Hormuz

U.S. President Donald Trump convened a meeting in the White House Situation Room with his advisers to deliberate on proceeding with a deal to extend the Iran ceasefire and facilitate the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the meeting, a decision was not reached as Iran claimed that the agreement is still pending finalization. Trump expressed that he wants to make a ‘final determination’ soon.

An administration official, who preferred to stay anonymous, disclosed that Trump would only approve a deal that aligns with his conditions, particularly concerning Iran’s nuclear objectives. He also confirmed that recent high-level talks have not yet resulted in a resolution. The U.S. and Iranian negotiators have tentatively agreed on extending the ceasefire for 60 more days to allow further discussions on Iran’s nuclear program.

Trump communicated on social media that Iran must ensure that they do not obtain nuclear weapons. He emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz needs reopening for global navigation, coupled with the dismantling of sea mines.

Iranian negotiator Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf voiced skepticism, insisting that actions, not promises, build trust due to past U.S. and Israeli interventions during nuclear negotiations. He stated, ‘No step will be taken before the other side acts.’

While U.S. Vice President JD Vance noted that negotiators were working on broad nuclear program terms, Iranian officials, on the same day, asserted their focus on ending the war, not delving into nuclear specifics. They also insisted on involving Hezbollah in any ceasefire agreement and asked for the unfreezing of billions of dollars.

Ebrahim Azizi from the Iranian parliament argued for a transaction method of ‘cash for cash, credit for credit.’ The IAEA indicated that Iran has 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched up to 60% purity, close to weapons-grade levels. Trump demanded the removal and destruction of this stockpile as part of the negotiations.

“Iran sets the terms: cash for cash, credit for credit, nothing for nothing.” — Ebrahim Azizi

A tentative memorandum outlines that Iran would not levy tolls on the Strait of Hormuz and must clear mines within 30 days. The U.S. would gradually ease port blockades and sanctions, enabling Iran to increase oil sales. Iran and Oman plan to manage the strait, emphasizing mutual and international interests.

Amid earlier closures due to conflict, commercial passage through the strait has dwindled. Iran has charged tolls on some ships and created the Persian Gulf Strait Authority, which U.S. sanctions targeted, indicating significant economic impacts from the closure.

Though the ceasefire was marked by exchanges of strikes and allegations, full-scale warfare has been avoided, and negotiations continue.