The U.S. and Iran may reach a phased agreement despite the breakdown of negotiations, according to CNN
The U.S. and Iran remain closer to a potential agreement than it might seem, even despite the breakdown of the second round of talks last weekend. The parties are considering the possibility of reaching an agreement in stages.
CNN reports on this.
Active diplomatic efforts are underway behind the scenes, and current consultations are focused specifically on a phased approach to the agreement.
The first phase of a potential agreement is expected to involve a return to the pre-war status quo and the restoration of full-scale operations in the Strait of Hormuz without restrictions or tariffs.
At the same time, the issue of Iran’s nuclear program, which previously became one of the key factors of tension between the parties, is planned to be addressed in later stages of the negotiations.
Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that any agreement must include Iran’s refusal to enrich uranium to a level close to weapons-grade, as well as a complete cessation of such activities. Tehran categorically rejects these demands.
Sources also note that international mediators are increasing pressure on both sides to reach a compromise. The coming days could be decisive for the future of the negotiation process.
At the same time, the risk of escalation remains: the U.S. could abandon the diplomatic path at any moment and revert to a military scenario.
On the eve of the visit, French President Emmanuel Macron announced active diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. During a visit to Andorra, he emphasized that he is negotiating with both Donald Trump and the Iranian side to resolve the energy crisis “at its root.”
Iran has presented the United States with a new proposal to resolve the situation surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and end the war. At the same time, Tehran is proposing to postpone nuclear negotiations to a later stage.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Iran continues to attempt to maintain control over the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasized that such approaches are unacceptable to the United States and underscored the importance of freedom of navigation in the region.
