Subscribing is the best way to get our best stories immediately.
Iran and the US appear closer than in recent months to a potential understanding that could ease tensions in the Middle East and reduce pressure around the Strait of Hormuz, but major disputes remain unresolved, according to a report by The New York Times.
While both Washington and Tehran have signalled progress, the two sides are presenting sharply different accounts of what has been agreed — particularly on Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, and the future of maritime security in the Gulf.
At the centre of the talks is Iran’s nuclear programme, especially its stockpile of highly enriched uranium.
US officials cited in the report said there is a preliminary understanding that Iran would eventually dispose of its stockpile of near weapons-grade material, though the mechanism remains under negotiation.
Iranian officials, however, have pushed back, saying no final agreement has been reached and that nuclear issues will continue to be discussed over the coming weeks.
The question of whether Iran must halt enrichment entirely also remains unresolved, with US officials suggesting it could be deferred to later negotiations.
The Strait of Hormuz remains another key sticking point.
Iranian officials reportedly indicated Tehran could allow shipping to pass freely without transit fees if US restrictions are lifted.
However, US President Donald Trump has said existing measures, including a naval blockade targeting Iranian-linked vessels, will remain in place until a final agreement is reached.
The disagreement underscores broader uncertainty over how maritime rules would be enforced in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.
Sanctions relief is also a major point of contention, with Iranian officials suggesting the deal could eventually unlock around $25 billion in frozen overseas assets.
US officials, however, say no commitment has been made at this stage, with any release contingent on Iran meeting nuclear-related conditions.
The report also highlights uncertainty over Iran’s regional role.
Iranian officials reportedly suggest that the proposed framework could include a wider ceasefire involving Tehran-backed groups such as Hezbollah, but US officials have not confirmed any such arrangement.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated that Israel would continue to act independently on security threats in Lebanon regardless of any US-Iran understanding.
Another unresolved issue is Iran’s ballistic missile programme, which appears to be excluded from the current draft framework.
US officials say missiles are not part of the ongoing discussions, despite concerns from Israel and Gulf states that they remain a major regional threat.
Analysts warn that while the emerging outline of a deal may reduce immediate tensions, the number of unresolved issues means any agreement would likely remain fragile and open to future escalation.
