Iranian official states that a deal with the US has not yet been reached
Kyiv • UNN
The US and Iran are discussing the terms of an agreement to open the Strait of Hormuz. Currently, the parties are focused on ending the war, but a final agreement has not yet been reached.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated today that Washington and Tehran are still maintaining contact, but a memorandum of understanding between the two countries has not yet been finalized, UNN reports, citing CNN.
Details
U.S. President Donald Trump previously stated that he is meeting with advisors in the White House Situation Room to determine whether to agree to a deal with Iran. CNN reported on Thursday that the parties had reached a preliminary agreement to open the Strait of Hormuz and begin a 60-day negotiating window regarding Tehran's nuclear program, but the terms still require Trump's approval.
"As I am speaking to you, the exchange of messages is, of course, ongoing, but a final agreement has not yet been reached," Baghaei told Iranian state television.
On Friday, Trump stated that as part of any deal, Iran "must agree that it will never have a nuclear weapon or a bomb" and that "the Strait of Hormuz must be opened immediately" without any fees or restrictions on movement, among other provisions.
Baghaei stated that the future of the blocked Strait of Hormuz would depend on the countries of Oman and Iran, as both nations have a plan for managing passage through this waterway.
"Iran and Oman, as two responsible countries, must implement mechanisms that protect both their national interests and security as coastal states, as well as guarantee the international community safe navigation through this route," Baghaei said.
The Iranian official added that current negotiations between the U.S. and Iran are focused on ending the war, and nuclear issues are not currently being discussed.