Iran and Qatar discuss terms of potential deal with US
Photo: The flag of Iran (Getty Images)
A deal between the United States and Iran is not inevitable, despite ongoing negotiations and discussions of key parameters, Reuters reports.
According to Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei, the parties have made progress in several areas during contacts, but this does not mean an agreement is close to being signed.
He stressed that it is premature to speak of a breakthrough, as a number of fundamental issues remain unresolved.
Hormuz Strait and maritime security
A separate part of the negotiations concerns the situation in the Strait of Hormuz. The US side previously stated that discussions are focused on ensuring safe maritime navigation, as well as possible mechanisms for managing this strategic waterway.
In addition, time-limited measures to reduce tensions in the region are being considered.
Nuclear dossier and sanctions
A key issue remains Iran’s nuclear program. The United States insists on controlling stocks of highly enriched uranium and implementing measures aimed at preventing the development of nuclear weapons.
In response, Tehran says the nuclear issue is not central at this stage and can only be discussed within a broader framework agreement.
The issue of potential sanctions relief and the unfreezing of Iranian assets is also being raised.
Oil market reaction
Following reports of possible rapprochement between the sides, global oil prices fell by more than 4%, reaching their lowest level in two weeks.
Markets are reacting to expectations of diplomatic progress, although overall instability in the energy sector remains.
Ongoing disagreements
Despite discussions of certain mechanisms and parameters of a future deal, the sides continue to disagree on key issues—from Iran’s nuclear ambitions to sanctions policy and regional conflicts. Negotiations are ongoing, but the outcome remains uncertain.
Officials in Donald Trump’s administration claim that, within the framework of talks with the United States, Iran allegedly agreed to process or dispose of its stockpile of highly enriched uranium.
At the same time, Iran has stated that it has not agreed to transfer its highly enriched uranium reserves and emphasized that this issue was not part of previous agreements with the United States.
