US and Iran Agree on Deal Framework, Awaiting Trump’s Approval — US Sources

By Nkiruka Nnorom with agency reports

United States and Iranian negotiators reached a framework for a 60‑day ceasefire extension yesterday, but President Donald Trump’s approval is still pending, according to U.S. sources.

Trump reportedly circulated the draft agreement among allies, including Israel, as both sides seek to prevent new breaches of the ceasefire that could derail the deal.

In an effort to accelerate negotiations, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, Mohammad Ishaq Dar, is scheduled to fly to Washington today to meet his U.S. counterpart, Marco Rubio.

Sources also confirmed an Axios report that the parties had agreed on a memorandum of understanding to extend the truce and initiate talks on Iran’s nuclear program.

No immediate confirmation has come from Trump or Iranian officials.

The 60‑day deal would allow unrestricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz without tolls or harassment, and Iran would be required to remove all mines within 30 days, Axios reported.

In return, the U.S. would lift its naval blockade on Iranian ports, but only in proportion to the amount of commercial shipping restored, the report added.

The draft memorandum also emphasized Iran’s commitment not to pursue a nuclear weapon. One of the first issues to be addressed is the disposal of Iran’s stocks of enriched uranium.

Trump has repeatedly stated that any deal must prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, a condition he has cited as a prerequisite for ending the conflict that the U.S. and Israel launched on February 28. A fragile ceasefire has been in place since April 7.

On Wednesday, the president said he was not yet satisfied with Iran’s offers and warned that he could “finish the job” militarily.

Both Washington and Tehran accused each other of violating the truce earlier, following an exchange of fire.

China is urging the United Nations Security Council to ratify any agreement.

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