Washington: US President Donald Trump has claimed that the United States and Iran are nearing a broad agreement aimed at easing tensions in the Gulf region, stating that a proposed understanding could include reopening the Strait of Hormuz. However, Iranian media has disputed parts of the claim, indicating that disagreements over control and operational arrangements concerning the strategic waterway still remain unresolved.
Trump says agreement is in final stages
In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that an agreement had been “largely negotiated”, although he clarified that discussions on the final terms and details were still continuing.
According to Trump, the proposed arrangement involves not only the United States and Iran but also several countries participating in wider diplomatic efforts to reduce regional tensions.
He indicated that a formal announcement could be made shortly if negotiations reach completion.
Trump further stated that reopening the Strait of Hormuz would form a significant element of the proposed arrangement. The waterway remains one of the world’s most strategically important maritime passages, carrying a substantial share of global oil and energy shipments. Any disruption in the strait has broader implications for international trade and energy markets.
Regional leaders involved in discussions
The US President said progress had followed a series of conversations with regional and international leaders.
According to Trump, he held discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Qatar Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, Jordan’s King Abdullah II and Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.
Trump stated that the discussions centred around Iran and broader efforts toward what he described as a Memorandum of Understanding related to peace and regional stability.
He also said he separately spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and described the interaction positively.
Iran disputes claims over Strait of Hormuz
Despite Trump’s statements, Iranian media reports challenged the assertion that the Strait of Hormuz would be fully reopened under the proposed arrangement.
Iran’s semi-official media described the claim as inconsistent with the terms reportedly under discussion and stated that Tehran would continue maintaining authority over operational matters related to the waterway.
According to reports, Iranian officials indicated that route management, passage procedures, transit schedules and permit-related decisions would remain under Iranian control even if an agreement is finalised.
Reports also suggested that while shipping activity may return to levels seen before recent disruptions, that should not necessarily be interpreted as unrestricted access.
Negotiations continue amid unresolved issues
Reports indicate that diplomatic discussions may involve a phased framework aimed at reducing tensions and restoring maritime movement.
According to sources cited in international reports, the discussions may include ending the conflict phase, resolving the Strait of Hormuz situation and opening a broader negotiation period focused on wider regional and nuclear issues.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated Washington’s position that Iran should not possess nuclear weapons and that navigation routes should remain open.
Iran, meanwhile, has repeatedly stated that its nuclear programme is intended for civilian purposes and has sought relief from sanctions and restrictions affecting shipping and exports.
While recent statements from both sides suggest movement towards negotiations, differences remain over key issues. Diplomatic efforts are expected to continue in the coming days as negotiators attempt to bridge remaining gaps and determine whether a broader agreement can be finalised.