US, Iran eye peace deal in days amid differing terms

The United States, Iran, and Pakistan, acting as a mediator, have all expressed optimism about the imminent signing of a peace agreement. However, differing interpretations of key provisions suggest that significant gaps still need to be bridged.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the "Islamabad Memorandum," the name of the agreement negotiated with Pakistan's mediation, has never been closer to realization. He asserted that the preliminary deal demonstrates Iran's stronger position after the conflict, even declaring Tehran the "winner" in its dispute with the U.S.

Similarly, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed that a final peace text has been agreed upon, emphasizing that "peace has never been this close." A senior U.S. official from the Trump administration indicated that Washington anticipates signing an initial agreement within days, with the probability of signing increasing from 75% to 80-85% within a single day.

Despite the shared optimism, the U.S. and Iran describe the crucial elements of the deal very differently. Sources involved in the negotiations suggest the agreement includes Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz and the U.S. lifting its naval blockade on Iranian ports. However, the most significant disagreement centers on Iran's nuclear program. A senior White House official stated the final deal would lead to the dismantling of Iran's nuclear program, the destruction of its enriched uranium stockpiles, and the establishment of long-term monitoring. Washington also insists that Iran will not receive any funds from frozen assets until all commitments are met. U.S. Vice President JD Vance stressed that Tehran would not be disbursed funds merely for signing or participating in negotiations.

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Washington kỳ vọng sẽ ký một thỏa thuận ban đầu trong vài ngày tới.