US-Iran War: US and Iran Close in on Framework Deal After Prolonged Stalemate

The United States and Iran are moving closer to a potential agreement following more than a month of stalled negotiations, with both sides discussing a framework that could lead to a broader pact encompassing ceasefire measures and regional security issues.

In a Truth Social post, President Donald Trump stated that a deal with Iran has been largely negotiated, including provisions for the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump noted that the agreement remains subject to finalization between the two sides and other mediating countries, adding that the final aspects are under discussion and will be announced shortly.

Trump further revealed that leaders from several Gulf countries — Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, and Bahrain — joined a call to discuss the deal. He separately mentioned speaking with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the matter.

On the Iranian side, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Bagay told Iranian media that Tehran is in the final stages of finalizing a memorandum of understanding with the United States. Bagay expressed hope that a final agreement could be reached within 30 to 60 days.

“Our intention has been to draft a memorandum of understanding first like a framework agreement containing 14 points,” Bagay said. “We want this to include the main issues required for ending the imposed war and other issues of essential importance to us. Then over a reasonable time span between 30 to 60 days details are discussed and ultimately a final agreement is reached. We are at the stage of finalizing this memorandum of understanding.”

Bagay emphasized that Iran’s nuclear program is not currently under discussion. Instead, Tehran is prioritizing the end of the war on all fronts, including Lebanon.

“At this stage, we will not discuss the details of the nuclear issue,” Bagay stated. “We know that our nuclear issue has served as a pretext for two wars of aggression against the Iranian people. Furthermore, we have already suffered illegal attacks during nuclear negotiations. This is why we have decided responsibly and wisely to prioritize an urgent issue for all of us, ending the war on all fronts, including Lebanon.”

Iran has rejected Trump’s claim that reopening the Strait of Hormuz is part of the proposed agreement. According to Iranian media reports, Tehran has agreed to allow the number of ships passing through the strait to return to pre-war levels while maintaining control over the strategic waterway.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir met with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran. During the meeting, Pezeshkian said Iran is seeking to restore its legitimate rights in talks with the US but is proceeding with extreme caution due to past experiences negotiating with the Americans.

Munir also held meetings with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. Reports indicate that Munir conveyed messages from the US side, including a threat to resume the war if a deal is not reached.