Iran says a deal with the United States is “not imminent” despite reports of progress in ongoing indirect negotiations aimed at reducing regional tensions and ending the current conflict.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran and Washington had reached understandings on “many topics” being discussed in a possible memorandum of understanding, but warned that differences remain and no final agreement is close yet.
The comments came after U.S. President Donald Trump said he had instructed negotiators not to rush into an agreement, saying “time is on our side.”
According to reports, the talks involve:
- Extending and stabilizing the current ceasefire,
- Reopening the Strait of Hormuz,
- Easing some sanctions and trade restrictions,
- And broader regional security arrangements.
Iranian officials say changing U.S. positions and disagreements over key issues are slowing progress. Washington has continued insisting on major limits to Iran’s nuclear activities and regional military influence, while Tehran wants guarantees against future military action and sanctions pressure.
Despite the cautious tone, both sides appear to be keeping diplomatic channels open through intermediaries including Oman and Pakistan. Analysts say neither Tehran nor Washington currently wants a return to full-scale escalation, especially with global energy markets sensitive to instability around the Persian Gulf.
During the press conference, Baqaei insisted that the framework being drafted “is focused on ending the war” across the region, including in Lebanon.
He reiterated that details on Iran’s nuclear programme — a key sticking point for Washington — were not included and that the issue would only be discussed after the two sides agree on the framework.
Clauses on ending the US naval blockade on Iranian ports, in place since April 13, and arrangements on the strategic Strait of Hormuz were included, he said.
“US actions under the title of a naval blockade must be stopped, and at the same time, the Islamic Republic of Iran will take the necessary measures for safe transit in the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.
Iran, which has only allowed a trickle of ships to pass through the strait, has insisted that vessels obtain permission from its armed forces before transiting the waterway.
Baqaei said Iran was not imposing tolls on ships transiting the strait but rather collecting fees for “navigational services”.
“The services that are provided — navigational services in addition to the measures necessary to protect the environment of the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman — require the collection of certain fees,” he said, adding that Iran was “not seeking to collect tolls”.
Discover more from LN247
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
