The United States and Iran are moving closer to a possible peace deal to end tensions in West Asia. However, both sides are still negotiating the key terms. No final agreement exists yet. US President Donald Trump said on Friday that he would lift the naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. He also said the United States would soon decide on a broader agreement with Iran after internal discussions.
A White House official confirmed that Trump held a two-hour meeting in the Situation Room. The official did not confirm any final decision. Iran rejected the US claims. Iranian officials said talks are still ongoing. They said no final understanding has been reached.
Reports say both sides have agreed on a temporary framework. They signed a preliminary memorandum of understanding. It extends the ceasefire for 60 days. This extension allows more time for negotiations on a permanent deal.
Trump’s remarks on Hormuz and nuclear issue
Trump made strong statements about Iran. He said Iran must end its control over the Strait of Hormuz. Trump also demanded free movement of ships in the waterway.
He wrote, “Iran must agree that they will never have a Nuclear Weapon or Bomb. The Hormuz Strait must be immediately open, no tolls, for unrestricted shipping traffic, in both directions. All water mines, if any, will be terminated,”
Trump also said ships trapped due to what he called a naval blockade can now return home. He added: “Say HELLO to your wives, husbands, parents, and families from me, your favorite President!”
A White House official told AFP that Trump will approve a deal only if Iran meets all US conditions. Officials said the meeting ended without a final decision.
Iran rejects US statements
Iran strongly denied Trump’s claims. State media said ceasefire talks are still underway. They said no final deal exists.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei responded sharply. He rejected pressure-based language from the West. He said: “Tehran has said goodbye to the language of 'must' 47 years ago. None of the Western parties can use the language of 'must' when they talk about the Islamic Republic of Iran. We make our own decisions based on the interests and rights of the Iranian nation,”
He also called US maritime actions illegal. He said they broke the ceasefire that started on April 8.
Baghaei asked for proof of US intentions. He said, “We have to see in practice whether they will actually follow through on their words or if this is just a propaganda claim,”
Iran’s parliament responds
Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also raised doubts. He said Iran does not trust US guarantees or promises. He added that only actions will decide the future of the ceasefire agreement.