Ankara: Iran and the United States are reportedly on the brink of reaching a preliminary agreement aimed at ending the ongoing conflict and setting the stage for expansive nuclear discussions. Axios revealed this development, citing insights from two US officials and other sources familiar with the discussions taking place within the White House.
According to Anadolu Agency, Washington is anticipating a response from Tehran on several critical matters within a 48-hour window. Although a final agreement is yet to be sealed, US officials perceive this as the closest both nations have come to formulating an initial accord since the conflict commenced. The proposed memorandum seeks to declare an end to hostilities and outline a 30-day negotiation timeframe to work towards a more comprehensive agreement.
The subsequent negotiations are expected to concentrate on reopening transit through the Strait of Hormuz, setting limitations on Iran's nuclear activities, and easing US sanctions. Islamabad and Geneva are being considered as potential venues for these critical discussions, as reported by Axios.
Under the draft terms, Iran would commit to halting uranium enrichment while the US would progressively lift sanctions and release billions in frozen Iranian assets. Both countries are also expected to ease restrictions related to the Strait of Hormuz, including Iranian shipping limits and the US naval blockade.
The duration of the uranium enrichment moratorium remains a point of contention. Iran initially proposed a five-year period, whereas the US suggested 20 years. Current discussions are reportedly focusing on a period of at least 12 years, with a 15-year term being considered as a potential middle ground.
The draft agreement would further entail Iranian commitments not to pursue nuclear weapons, abstain from activities related to weaponization, and consent to expanded inspections, including unannounced inspections by United Nations inspectors. Axios reported that Iran might also agree to remove its highly enriched uranium stockpile from the country, a measure Tehran has previously resisted.
The report emphasized that no agreement has been finalized, with Ebrahim Rezaei, spokesman for the National Security and Foreign Policy Committee in Iran's parliament, dismissing the Axios report as "a list of American wishes rather than reality." Rezaei asserted that the US would not gain through a failed war what it could not achieve in direct negotiations, cautioning that Iran remains ready to respond decisively if further actions are taken by the US or its allies.
US officials reportedly believe there is a division within Iran's leadership, and some in Washington remain skeptical about securing even a preliminary deal. Axios noted that the US might reinstate the blockade or resume military actions if the talks disintegrate.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Tuesday that while a comprehensive agreement is not immediately necessary, Washington requires a credible diplomatic path and initial concessions to justify ongoing negotiations. Rubio also expressed doubt over whether Iranian leaders would ultimately endorse a deal.