**U.S. and Iran Near Preliminary Peace Framework as Negotiations Continue**
U.S. and Iranian officials are nearing a preliminary agreement that would establish a temporary cease-fire and create a framework for future peace negotiations, according to diplomats involved in the talks. The proposed memorandum, being discussed through mediators from Pakistan and Qatar, aims to reduce hostilities between the two countries and address several major disputes that emerged during months of conflict. While negotiators have made progress, significant issues remain unresolved.
According to diplomats familiar with the negotiations, the draft agreement would serve as a foundation for broader discussions on security, trade, reconstruction, and regional stability. One key provision under discussion is a nonaggression pact that would temporarily halt military actions between the United States and Iran, allowing both sides additional time to pursue a long-term settlement.
Negotiators continue to disagree on the duration of the proposed cease-fire. Some diplomats have suggested a 60-day arrangement, while Iranian officials argue that the pact should remain in effect throughout the entire negotiation process.
Another major issue involves the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic shipping route responsible for transporting a significant portion of the world’s oil and natural gas supplies. Following Iranian attacks earlier in the conflict, the United States imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports, limiting access to the waterway. Under the proposed peace-plan framework, commercial vessels would once again be allowed to travel through the strait. However, officials are still debating the timeline for lifting U.S. restrictions and whether Iran would eventually be permitted to collect transit fees from passing ships.
The draft framework also includes discussions about establishing an international investment fund to support Iran’s postwar reconstruction. Officials estimate the fund could be worth approximately $300 billion, although details have not been finalized. The proposal would only move forward if both sides ultimately reach a permanent agreement.
Iran’s nuclear program, one of the most sensitive issues in the negotiations, would be addressed during later rounds of talks. Future discussions are expected to focus on Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium and the methods used to monitor, reduce, or transfer those materials.
The framework further addresses Iranian financial assets currently frozen in foreign countries. Iranian officials have argued that gaining access to these funds is essential for maintaining progress in negotiations. Current proposals would gradually release billions of dollars through third-party countries rather than through direct payments from the United States.
The agreement has not yet received final approval, and President Donald Trump has not formally endorsed the proposal. Nevertheless, diplomats involved in the process describe the framework as the closest the two countries have come to reaching an agreement since negotiations began.
Officials caution that prolonged delays could increase tensions, trigger renewed fighting, and complicate efforts to achieve a lasting peace settlement.
