The US and Iran are discussing a possible agreement to end the war
The United States and Iran are discussing a new proposal to end the conflict. Washington has submitted a one-page memorandum of understanding that provides for the gradual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the lifting of the US blockade of Iranian ports, according to Bloomberg.
According to a source, detailed negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme are planned for the next stage. No final agreements have been reached as yet.
The initiative came after 48 tense hours. It reflects the situation Donald Trump finds himself in as he attempts to resolve the energy crisis following the US and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February. He had previously suspended a short-term US mission to ensure the safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.
An additional factor was the preparations for a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, which is scheduled for next week and was postponed at the start of the conflict.
Opinion polls show growing American dissatisfaction with the war. According to the American Automobile Association, the price of petrol has exceeded $4.50 per gallon for the first time since July 2022.
Against the backdrop of a possible resolution to the conflict, Japanese shares rose after the break, helping Asian markets reach a new high. Oil prices have stabilised after falling by nearly 8 per cent, with Brent trading above $102 a barrel.
Donald Trump has repeatedly stated that a deal is close, but it has not yet been reached. He noted that it may be too early to talk about face-to-face negotiations to finalise the agreement.
Iran is expected to convey its response via Pakistan, which is acting as a mediator, within the next two days. Iranian state media indicate that certain provisions of the US proposal remain unacceptable.
Trump stated that the US would halt its military campaign and lift the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz if Iran agreed to the terms. He did not provide details and added that strikes would continue in the event of a refusal.
In Israel, the potential deal has been met with concern. Benjamin Netanyahu’s government has stated its intention to continue pressuring Iran until its complete defeat and the dismantling of its nuclear, missile and proxy-related infrastructure. According to a source, Netanyahu is holding consultations with US representatives.
According to the source, the new plan also envisages the possible lifting of sanctions on Iran and a moratorium on uranium enrichment. The terms may be revised if a broader nuclear agreement is not reached.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military has struck the southern suburbs of Beirut. According to available information, the target was a Hezbollah commander. There is no official confirmation of his death.
During a meeting in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called on Iran to continue negotiations, noting that a resumption of hostilities is undesirable. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the country highly values the settlement plan proposed by China.
Donald Trump and Xi Jinping are expected to hold a meeting in Beijing on 14–15 May, during which they will discuss the situation surrounding the conflict. Trump also stated that if an agreement is reached, the US may ease sanctions against Iran.
