Donald Trump has issued a fresh warning to Tehran, stressing that Iran “must understand” it cannot possess a nuclear weapon, as the United States and Iran move closer to a potential peace agreement. The US has reported “significant progress” towards ending the conflict and reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, with expectations of a breakthrough growing.
Negotiations Progress Amid Caution
Despite a more optimistic tone on Sunday, following earlier indications that Washington was considering further military action against Iran, Trump emphasised that his administration would “not be rushed”. His remarks came shortly after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio signalled that an announcement could come “within hours”.
“The negotiations are proceeding in an orderly and constructive manner, and I have informed my representatives not to rush into a deal, for time is on our side,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “The Blockade will remain in full force and effect until an agreement is reached, certified, and signed. Both sides must take their time and get it right. There can be no mistakes! Our relationship with Iran is becoming a much more professional and productive one. They must understand, however, that they cannot develop or procure a Nuclear Weapon or Bomb.”
Draft Agreement Details Emerge
Details of the draft agreement surfaced on Sunday after Trump acknowledged that the deal had been “largely negotiated”. According to reports, the proposed accord includes Iran relinquishing its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, with specific timelines to be determined later. Additionally, no tolls would be imposed on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, and Iran would be permitted to sell oil freely. Negotiations regarding Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile—a key demand from Washington—would be conducted within 30 to 60 days.
The peace agreement is expected to be implemented in stages. The first phase would focus on formally ending the war and resolving the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz. A subsequent 30-day window for further negotiations, which could be extended, would follow, according to Reuters. In exchange for the reopening of the strait, the US would lift its blockade on Iranian shipping.
Iran’s Position
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated on Sunday that he was “ready to reassure the world that we are not seeking nuclear weapons”, but cautioned that Tehran’s negotiating team would “not compromise when it comes to our country’s honour and dignity”.
Iran’s Tasnim news agency indicated that disagreements persist over one or two aspects of the deal, though no further details were provided. A senior Iranian source told Reuters that if Iran’s Supreme National Security Council approves the memorandum, it will be sent to the supreme leader for final ratification. Meanwhile, Fars news agency, which is closely aligned with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), reported that even if the Strait of Hormuz is reopened, it will remain under Iranian control.
International Reaction
World leaders have cautiously welcomed reports of a potential peace deal. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed hope that any agreement would end the conflict and ensure “unconditional and unrestricted freedom of navigation” through the strait. “It’s vital that Iran must never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon,” Starmer said. “My government will continue to do everything we can to protect British people from the impact of this conflict.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed these sentiments, stressing the need for a deal that “truly de-escalates the conflict, reopens the Strait of Hormuz and guarantees toll-free full freedom of navigation”. She added that Iran must not be permitted to develop a nuclear weapon.
Challenges Remain
Even if the war ends immediately, full flows through the Strait of Hormuz are not expected to resume before the first or second quarter of 2027, according to the head of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company. The IRGC reported that 33 vessels had passed through the strait in the past 24 hours after receiving permission from Tehran, a figure far below the pre-war daily average of 140.
Separately, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has informed Trump that Israel should retain the freedom to act against threats in Lebanon as details of the peace deal emerge, a source told Reuters. Israel conducted further strikes in Lebanon on Saturday, reportedly killing at least four people and reducing buildings to rubble. Conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has persisted since a US-brokered ceasefire was announced in April. Israel has occupied approximately 235 square miles of territory in southern Lebanon and has stated that it will withdraw only when the safety of residents in northern Israel is assured.
