Mediators are working behind the scenes to broker a deal between the United States and Iran aimed at ending the ongoing conflict and reopening the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, but significant differences remain between the two sides, officials say.
Three regional officials and two U.S. officials told The Associated Press that indirect negotiations are continuing despite President Donald Trump’s earlier rejection of an Iranian proposal to reopen the strait within a week in exchange for concessions including the lifting of the U.S. blockade, the release of frozen Iranian assets and waivers on sanctions affecting Iranian oil sales.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has remained in New York following the United Nations General Assembly and was expected to meet with Qatari mediators as discussions continue. U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has also encouraged the parties to maintain diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the conflict.
One of the biggest obstacles remains Iran’s nuclear program. A U.S. official said Washington wants concrete progress on nuclear issues before agreeing to a broader deal. Potential U.S. concessions could include sanctions relief and the release of some frozen Iranian funds, but the two sides remain divided over the timing and sequence of their commitments.
The proposed agreement would reportedly begin with the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the lifting of the U.S. blockade, followed by further sanctions-related measures. Iran has also been discussing arrangements with Oman concerning the management of shipping through the waterway.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global energy route, and disruptions to shipping there have contributed to higher oil prices and broader economic uncertainty. Brent crude was reported above $108 a barrel, reflecting concerns about continued instability in the region.
The conflict has also expanded beyond the immediate U.S.-Iran confrontation, with Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen creating additional risks around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, another major international shipping route.
While diplomatic channels remain open, officials caution that substantial disagreements over nuclear issues, sanctions, the blockade and the order in which commitments should be implemented could still prevent an agreement.
The continuing mediation effort nevertheless keeps open the possibility of a negotiated settlement to a conflict that has caused significant humanitarian and economic consequences across the Middle East and beyond.
Swifteradio.com
