Officials close to the negotiations say the United States and Iran are approaching a deal that could bring an end to the ongoing conflict and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global energy supplies. Central to the agreement is Iran’s commitment to surrender its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, a significant step toward curbing nuclear weapons development concerns.
Despite progress, President Donald Trump urged caution, advising U.S. representatives not to rush the process. He described the talks as orderly and constructive, emphasizing a shift toward a more professional relationship between the two countries. Trump also maintained that economic and military pressure on Iran, including a blockade of its ports, will continue until a formal deal is executed and certified.
The Strait of Hormuz has been effectively closed by Iran following a U.S. and Israeli military strike earlier in the year, fueling a global energy crisis marked by soaring oil and gas prices. Reopening the strait would alleviate supply disruptions, although experts warn that recovery for shipping and energy markets may take weeks or months.
Under the proposed deal, Iran would enter a 60-day phase to begin handing over its enriched uranium. Part of the stockpile could be diluted to a lower enrichment level, while the remainder might be transferred to a third-party nation, with Russia reportedly offered as a temporary custodian. Currently, Iran holds approximately 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched up to 60 percent purity, approaching weapons-grade levels.
Iran maintains its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, asserting its right to nuclear technology, though it has yet to officially agree to relinquish its uranium stockpile. Iranian officials have publicly denied any intention of pursuing nuclear weapons, a stance reiterated in recent state broadcasts.
Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, speaking during a visit to India, acknowledged significant, albeit incomplete, progress in the negotiations. He suggested the approaching agreement would reduce global concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions.