US and Iran reportedly nearing ceasefire framework agreement
Washington and Tehran are nearing a 60-day ceasefire extension and Strait of Hormuz reopening, but the deal awaits final approval from President Trump and Iranian leadership.
US Vice President JD Vance confirmed significant progress on a memorandum of understanding but acknowledged that key details remain under negotiation. Speaking to reporters, Vance emphasized uncertainty over whether Trump would ultimately sign off on the arrangement, stating that the Iranians appeared to be negotiating in good faith at this stage.
The New York Times cited three US officials familiar with the talks who indicated that an agreement could be imminent. Such a deal would extend the ceasefire that began on April 8, reopen the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping, and pave the way for more substantive negotiations between the two nations.
60-Day Extension on the Table
As reported by Nius, the news outlet Axios had earlier disclosed that negotiators from both sides agreed to a 60-day memorandum of understanding that would prolong the ceasefire and initiate talks over Iran’s nuclear program. However, final consent from Trump and Iran’s leadership remains outstanding.
Tehran has not officially confirmed the arrangement. Tasnim, a news agency with close ties to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, quoted a source close to the negotiating team who said no preliminary agreement had been formalized or endorsed.
Strait of Hormuz to Reopen Without Fees
According to Axios, the proposed memorandum would stipulate unrestricted passage through the Strait of Hormuz without levies or tolls. Iran would commit to clearing all mines from the strategically vital waterway within 30 days. The strait serves as a critical artery for global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.
In exchange, the United States would lift its naval blockade of Iranian ports, a move that could ease economic pressure on the Islamic Republic while restoring normal maritime commerce through one of the world’s most important chokepoints.
Trump’s Decision Remains Unclear
Vance refrained from offering a timeline for presidential approval. It is hard to say when exactly or if the president will sign the memorandum of understanding, he remarked, adding cautious optimism that negotiations would continue to advance.
The White House has maintained a firm stance on Iran throughout Trump’s tenure, and any agreement will likely face scrutiny from conservative lawmakers and allies who remain skeptical of Tehran’s long-term intentions, particularly regarding its nuclear ambitions and regional activities.
With information from Nius
