US officials say Iran deal calls for diluting uranium at minimum, waiving sanctions, opening strait

A proposed U.S.-Iran agreement, disclosed by U.S. officials Wednesday, outlines key concessions from both sides. Iran would be required to dilute its stockpile of highly enriched uranium on-site, while the U.S. would waive—not eliminate—some sanctions, allowing Iran to freely sell oil. The deal also includes a 60-day toll-free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, though fees could resume afterward, and affirms Lebanon’s territorial integrity amid Israel’s military actions against Hezbollah. U.S. officials shared draft language with journalists after days of secrecy, confirming Trump and Vice President JD Vance digitally signed the agreement Sunday, with a ceremonial signing planned for Friday in Switzerland. However, a U.S. official clarified Trump signed the deal again Wednesday at Versailles during a Group of Seven summit, while Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also signed that day. Iran’s state TV released text aligning with the U.S. version, though no formal agreement has been publicly released. The interim deal falls short of Trump’s earlier goals, including dismantling Iran’s nuclear and missile programs or toppling its government. Instead, it focuses on halting hostilities and preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons, with uranium downgrading as a minimum requirement. Trump praised the deal as ‘very strong’ despite its limited scope, though questions remain about its enforceability and next steps. The agreement’s timing follows a U.S.-Israel war that began February 28, partly aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear capabilities. While the deal secures short-term concessions, it does not address long-term concerns like Iran’s regional influence or its support for proxy groups like Hezbollah. A Swiss signing ceremony may still proceed, but its purpose—whether symbolic or for further negotiations—remains uncertain. Sanctions relief is partial, as the U.S. will waive some restrictions but retain others, leaving Iran’s economic future uncertain. The Strait of Hormuz’s temporary toll-free status offers temporary relief to global oil markets but does not guarantee permanent access. Meanwhile, Lebanon’s sovereignty is acknowledged, though Israel’s conflict with Hezbollah continues unabated, complicating regional stability.