Trump says a deal with Iran and opening of Strait of Hormuz are ‘largely negotiated’

Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that a deal with Iran, including the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, has been 'largely negotiated.' He stated that final details are being discussed and will be announced soon, following talks with leaders from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Pakistan, Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain, and Israel. The agreement, described as a 'Memorandum of Understanding pertaining to PEACE,' still requires formalization by the U.S., Iran, and participating countries. A regional official with direct knowledge of Pakistan-led mediation efforts said the U.S. and Iran were close to a ceasefire deal, though last-minute disputes could derail progress. The potential agreement would include an official declaration of war’s end, with two-month negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program, and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. would also end its blockade of Iran’s ports, though nuclear issues were not part of current discussions. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, described the draft as a 'framework agreement' for further talks, emphasizing the Strait of Hormuz and lifting sanctions as key priorities. He stated that nuclear issues would be addressed later, with a focus on ending the war in Lebanon and other fronts. Iran’s official IRNA news agency reported that differences were narrowing, though a final agreement could take 30 to 60 days. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged progress in negotiations during a visit to India, warning that Iran must never acquire a nuclear weapon and must surrender its highly enriched uranium. Both sides emphasized the risks of resuming attacks and disrupting the fragile ceasefire. Hezbollah’s leader, Naim Kassim, received a letter from Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, confirming Tehran’s commitment to its allies amid ongoing tensions in Lebanon. The ceasefire in the Israel-Hezbollah conflict remains fragile, with negotiations brokered by the U.S. The potential deal excludes immediate resolution of Iran’s nuclear program, leaving those discussions for future talks. Trump’s announcement suggests a diplomatic push to stabilize the region, though final details and timing remain unclear.