Iran preparing draft agreement with U.S., focusing on Hormuz and port blockade

Iran is in the process of finalizing a draft agreement with the United States, comprising 14 points, an Iranian official stated. E. Baqaei told Iran's IRIB broadcaster that these points would be discussed in detail over the next 30 to 60 days, leading to a final accord. He indicated that while an agreement with Washington on peace might be possible, it would not necessarily cover all major issues. The draft reportedly includes provisions regarding the Strait of Hormuz and the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports, which Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman described as "piracy." According to the official, Tehran's primary focus is on ending conflicts across all fronts, including in Lebanon, and it does not intend to discuss details of its nuclear program. This development follows a period of heightened tensions, including large-scale attacks between Iran and Israel starting February 28, and Iran's retaliatory drone and missile launches. A ceasefire was agreed upon in early April, but a lasting peace has not been established. Iran has significantly disrupted shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for approximately one-fifth of the world's gas and oil supply, leading to global fuel price increases. Concurrently, the U.S. maintains a blockade on Iranian ports.