US President Donald Trump announced progress in reaching a peace agreement aimed at ending hostilities between the United States, Israel, and Iran. Following talks with leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Pakistan, Jordan, Egypt, Turkey, and Bahrain, Trump stated that discussions are ongoing over the final elements of the agreement. Iranian officials, however, have noted that the deal does not currently address the future of their nuclear program and indicated that separate negotiations on this matter will take place within the next 30 to 60 days.
May 23, Kathmandu — After telephonic discussions with Middle Eastern leaders, Trump revealed that reopening the Strait of Hormuz would also be included in the agreement. He reportedly held a separate conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. On the social media platform Truth Social, Trump wrote, “The final parties and details of the agreement are currently under discussion, and it will be announced soon.”
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his country’s commitment to facilitating dialogue and hopes to soon host US-Iran talks. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan welcomed the progress and stated that the agreement will facilitate free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, the office of Egypt’s president urged all parties to use diplomatic efforts constructively to reach a consensus.
Despite differing claims between the US and Iran regarding terms of the agreement, Trump asserted that the deal is close. According to US officials, Iran has committed to relinquishing its stockpile of highly enriched uranium under this agreement, although Tehran has left the issue open for future nuclear discussions. Iranian representatives claim the agreement will halt conflicts across all fronts including Lebanon, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, lift the US naval blockade, and release Iran’s $25 billion in frozen assets held abroad.
Opposition to the prospective agreement has already emerged in the United States. Republican Senator Ted Cruz voiced concerns, warning that if the deal permits Iran to enrich uranium and develop nuclear weapons, it would be a serious mistake.
