Trump Deliberates on Iran Ceasefire and Strait of Hormuz Deal

President Donald Trump held a meeting with White House advisers to discuss the potential extension of the Iran ceasefire and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Despite thorough discussions, no decision was reached.

Trump stated he was making a ‘final determination.’ A senior official emphasized Trump’s conditions must be met, including limiting Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

News had emerged that U.S. and Iranian negotiators tentatively agreed on extending the ceasefire by 60 days. Trump’s social media post declared Iran must agree never to possess nuclear weapons and ensure the strait is open for navigation with all mines cleared.

Iranian negotiator Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf expressed distrust, pointing to past U.S. and Israeli attacks during previous negotiations. Before taking any step, Qalibaf insisted on actionable results over guarantees.

Iran’s spokesman, Esmail Baghaei, confirmed no finalized agreement. Talks focus on ending hostilities rather than nuclear details. Baghaei highlighted Iran’s wish for a truce involving Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, alongside releasing funds.

Ebrahim Azizi, a figure close to Iranian leadership, stated terms of reciprocity in negotiations. Iran holds 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched up to 60%, just short of weapons-grade. There is no commitment to relinquish the stockpile, which is hidden under damaged sites from past U.S. strikes.

Trump reiterated demands to eliminate the nuclear material as part of any agreement, coordinated with Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

The proposed memorandum outlines that Iran cannot charge tolls on the Strait and must remove mines within 30 days. The U.S. would gradually lift blockades and relax sanctions, enabling Iranian oil sales.

Iran and Oman would manage the strait under joint mechanisms for transit, prioritizing national and international interests. Discussions between the foreign ministers of Iran and Oman confirmed solidarity against threats.

Previously, Trump cautioned Oman against sharing control of the strait with Iran, threatening military action. The strait has been effectively closed since a February 28 attack, impacting global fuel prices due to reduced trade flow.

Iran allows limited vessel passage compared to usual traffic and has established the Persian Gulf Strait Authority to oversee passage, leading to new U.S. sanctions.

The ceasefire has seen intermittent challenges but no escalation to full conflict. Negotiations continue amidst persistent tension.