Trump: Iran deal possible this weekend; compensation, uranium processing key issues

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that negotiations with Iran are proceeding "very well" and a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for a ceasefire could be reached as early as this weekend. However, Iran's demand for financial compensation in the initial stages of the agreement, along with the handling of highly enriched uranium, has emerged as a critical sticking point.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump addressed the situation, stating, "I've heard the negotiations themselves are actually going very well." He added, "If it's not going to work out, it could be this weekend." The President also asserted that Iran has agreed not to develop or purchase nuclear weapons, a point that was a subject of negotiation for about two weeks.

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I've heard the negotiations themselves are actually going very well.

Regarding the processing of highly enriched uranium, Trump indicated an agreement is in place for the U.S. to secure and destroy it. However, he also noted that Iran "changed its mind a few times," suggesting the finalization of the agreement is not yet certain. Despite claiming Iranian nuclear facilities were "completely destroyed" by U.S. airstrikes, he expressed a desire to "secure it anyway."

The Strait of Hormuz is expected to reopen immediately after the MOU is signed, with Trump stating that mine-clearing operations are already in progress. "It will be open very quickly because I don't think there are any mines," he said.

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If it's not going to work out, it could be this weekend.

Despite these developments, reports suggest that financial compensation remains the biggest hurdle. CNN, citing U.S. officials, reported that Iran wants some financial compensation released immediately after the initial MOU, while the Trump administration fears this could weaken pressure on Iran gained through military action and sanctions. CNN reported Iran's demand to be around $12 billion.

Trump also drew a stark contrast with the Obama administration's 2015 Iran nuclear deal, calling it "one of the most foolish deals ever" and criticizing the $1.7 billion cash payment made to Iran. He has reportedly informed his staff that he will not sign an agreement involving direct U.S. payments to Iran, with discussions ongoing about third-party funding or releasing frozen assets for humanitarian purposes.

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Memorandum of understanding signing immediately, the Strait of Hormuz will be open.