Middle East: Iran-U.S. Deal Delayed, Hormuz Remains Closed Amid Ongoing Talks

The anticipated signing of an agreement between Iran and the United States has been delayed, leaving the Strait of Hormuz closed for the time being. While negotiations continue intensely, U.S. officials indicate that finalizing the deal could take several more days.

U.S. President Donald Trump has tempered expectations, stating there is no rush and that time is on their side. Despite constructive talks on contentious points, the White House believes more time is needed before both parties can give their final approval. Tehran's approval has not yet been secured, with some American officials attributing the delay to Iran's "slow and opaque" decision-making system.

Disagreements remain on several key clauses. Tehran views the release of frozen assets as a crucial point, while its stance on nuclear issues appears firmer. Although President Masoud Pezeshkian has expressed readiness to assure the world Iran is not seeking nuclear weapons, Tehran insists no nuclear proposals have been accepted yet, deferring this topic until after an agreement to end the war is reached within 30-60 days.

According to the American administration's version of the potential deal, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz would be exchanged for the end of the blockade on Iran's ports. Trump has vowed this blockade will remain until a signature is on paper. U.S. officials noted the document does not reference the immediate release of Iran's frozen assets abroad, a figure reportedly much higher than previous agreements.

Regarding oil sanctions, the U.S. anticipates that any easing will depend on Tehran's compliance with the agreement's provisions. Highly enriched uranium will only be mentioned in principle, with timelines for its disposal and a moratorium on enrichment to be negotiated later. Washington remains confident in its ability to secure a binding mechanism to ensure Iran does not develop nuclear weapons.