US President Donald Trump has said a framework for a peace agreement with Iran has been “largely negotiated”, raising hopes of an end to nearly three months of conflict and disruption in the Gulf region.
Iran, the United States and mediator Pakistan all reported progress after high-level talks in Tehran involving Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, Iranian officials and negotiators.
According to Reuters, Tehran is working to finalise a memorandum of understanding aimed at ending hostilities and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route that has faced severe disruption during the conflict.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said “some progress” had been achieved and hinted that Washington could make an announcement within days.
Sources familiar with the negotiations said the proposed agreement may unfold in stages, beginning with formally ending the war, addressing the Strait of Hormuz crisis and opening a 30-day negotiation window for a broader settlement.
However, major disagreements remain. Washington insists Iran must never obtain nuclear weapons and wants Tehran to surrender its stockpile of enriched uranium. Iran has rejected compromise on what it calls its “legitimate rights” and continues to demand sanctions relief and guarantees against further attacks.
Iranian officials also warned that any renewed military action by the US would trigger a harsher response.
The talks come amid growing pressure over rising global energy prices and concerns about instability in the Middle East.
