The US administration sees itself on the verge of a breakthrough in negotiations with Iran to end the war. Donald Trump said on his Truth Social platform that a framework agreement is “largely” negotiated. The final aspects and details are currently being discussed and should be announced shortly, Trump said. The agreement aims, among other things, to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil and gas trade.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also expressed optimism. During a visit to India on Sunday, he spoke of “significant progress” and hinted that more news could follow later in the day. Rubio also sharply condemned Iranian threats to attack ships in international waters of the Strait of Hormuz. “That is illegal under every concept of international law that governs us,” he said. Allowing this to become normal would normalize an unacceptable status quo and set a dangerous precedent.
Iran contradicts and insists on control
The Iranian side, however, showed restraint and contradicted Trump’s account. An Iranian military spokesman stressed on platform X that Tehran would retain control over the Strait of Hormuz even if an agreement with the US is reached. This puts the leadership in Tehran at odds with Washington’s demand to open the waterway. Iran had previously repeatedly threatened to attack ships to strengthen its negotiating position.
The planned agreement is designed as a two-phase deal, according to US sources. The first phase involves a ceasefire and the restoration of free navigation, while the second phase addresses longer-term security guarantees and economic issues. Pakistan is acting as a mediator between the conflicting parties and reports progress in the talks.
Background: Long war and global consequences
The war between the US and Iran began last year and led to a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The waterway is essential for transporting about 20 percent of the world’s oil and a large portion of liquefied gas. The blockade drove up energy prices and weighed on the global economy. The US subsequently assembled a military coalition to protect shipping, but a diplomatic solution remained elusive for a long time.
Trump had previously repeatedly taken a hard line toward Tehran and threatened massive military strikes. The latest signals from Washington now indicate a shift in course. Observers view the willingness to reach an agreement as an admission that a military solution would be too costly and risky. Negotiations have intensified in recent weeks, with Pakistan playing a key mediating role.
Source: www.handelsblatt.com
