U.S. President Donald Trump convened a meeting with his advisers in the White House Situation Room on Friday. The agenda focused on whether to proceed with a deal aimed at extending the Iran ceasefire and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. However, a decision has not been reached. Iran has stated that the agreement remains unfinalized.
Trump Seeks Final Decision
Before the meeting, Trump expressed his intention to make a ‘final determination.’ Following the approximately two-hour discussion with national security aides, no decision emerged, said a senior administration official who requested anonymity. Trump will only approve a deal that aligns with his prerequisites and limits Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
The discussions took place a day after reports indicated that U.S. and Iranian negotiators had preliminarily agreed on extending the ceasefire by 60 days. This extension would also create space for negotiations over Iran’s disputed nuclear program.
Iran’s Stance
Iranian negotiator Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf highlighted a lack of trust, emphasizing reliance on actions over words. He stated that Iran gains concessions via ‘missiles’ and not talks. No action will occur until the other party demonstrates initiative.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei acknowledged that the agreement is not yet finalized. The discourse centers on ending the war rather than discussing nuclear details currently. Iran seeks an agreement that extends a truce with Hezbollah militants in Lebanon and demands the release of frozen funds.
Nuclear Developments
Iran reportedly possesses 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% purity, which is a brief step away from weapons-grade levels. While Iran claims its nuclear program remains peaceful, the U.S. demands the removal and destruction of this cache as part of any agreement.
Strait of Hormuz Implications
The deal under consideration would prevent Iran from imposing tolls and require mine removal from the Strait of Hormuz within 30 days. The U.S. pledges to gradually lift its blockade on Iranian ports and ease oil-related sanctions.
Iran and Oman will manage the strait, balancing national and international interests. Trump warned Oman against agreements with Iran to share control of the strait, threatening consequences if done.
Economic Effects
The strait’s closure has escalated fuel prices internationally. Previously, Iran allowed around two dozen vessels to pass daily, significantly fewer than the prior 100-plus. Iran also charges tolls for some ships and has established a Persian Gulf Strait Authority, leading to new U.S. sanctions.
Despite seven weeks of ceasefire, sporadic strikes and accusations continue without returning to large-scale conflict. Negotiations between the U.S. and Iran persist.
Associated Press writers Jennifer Peltz, Farnoush Amiri, and Matthew Lee contributed to this report.
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