Donald Trump has returned more stringent terms for peace negotiations with Iran, expressing no rush to finalize a deal. Following discussions held by US representatives and Iranian counterparts on Friday, Trump has requested several amendments to the proposed agreement.
During a meeting in the White House situation room, Trump urged his team to revise clauses concerning Iran’s nuclear program, as reported by Axios citing two US officials. The current memorandum of understanding includes Iran’s commitment to nuclear development without specific concessions beyond the memorandum.
The agreement stipulates a 60-day negotiation period for US sanctions relief and Iranian nuclear commitments, focusing on limiting uranium enrichment and depleting Iran’s existing stockpile. Trump aims to modify this aspect of the deal, along with terms related to reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
A Trump administration official affirmed that a deal is imminent but the timeline remains uncertain, emphasizing the importance of meeting the President’s requirements. Trump, in an interview with Fox News, expressed satisfaction with the progress, emphasizing the need for a well-negotiated deal over haste.
Since April 7, a fragile ceasefire has been in place. Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz between Iran and Oman have disrupted global trade, particularly affecting the transportation of oil, natural gas, and related commodities, leading to economic strain on consumers and food producers.
Commercial traffic continues in the strait, albeit at reduced levels, despite Iran’s claims of authority over transit approvals. Iran’s military command has issued warnings against violating regulations in the area, including targeting military vessels attempting interference.
Iran’s imposition of high tolls for passage, reaching up to $2 million, has sparked controversy as experts argue it infringes on the principle of freedom of navigation in international maritime trade. Qatar’s deputy prime minister has expressed opposition to such fees, suggesting negotiation for temporary use related to mine clearing to restore normalcy in the Strait of Hormuz transit.
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