U.S and Iranian negotiators reach 60-day ceasefire extension and nuclear talks framework, Trump yet to approve deal, officials say
U.S. and Iranian negotiators have reached a tentative 60-day memorandum of understanding aimed at extending a ceasefire and opening formal talks on Iran’s nuclear program, though final approval from President Trump is still pending, according to officials involved in the negotiations.
The proposed framework would serve as an initial agreement to bring both sides back to the table for more detailed discussions, with one U.S. official describing it as a starting point to “work out the details in the negotiations.”
Officials said most terms were agreed upon earlier in the week, but both Washington and Tehran still required sign-off from senior leadership. U.S. officials said Iranian negotiators later indicated they had received approval and were ready to sign, though Iran has not publicly confirmed that claim.
After being briefed on the agreement, Trump reportedly did not immediately approve it and told mediators he wanted additional time to review the terms.
The 60-day framework outlines provisions for “unrestricted” shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, including the removal of mines within 30 days and the elimination of barriers to commercial maritime traffic. It also calls for a phased lifting of a naval blockade tied to the restoration of trade routes.
On the nuclear issue, the agreement would include a commitment from Iran not to pursue a nuclear weapon, while negotiations would focus early on how to handle highly enriched uranium and restrictions on enrichment activities.
The United States would, in turn, discuss potential sanctions relief and access to frozen Iranian funds during the negotiation period, along with possible mechanisms to facilitate humanitarian aid and trade.
The diplomatic push comes even as tensions persisted in the region, with reported skirmishes involving U.S. and Iranian forces in the Strait of Hormuz over the past 48 hours.
Officials involved in the talks said the agreement could give Iran an opportunity to ease economic pressure if both sides engage in good faith negotiations, while emphasizing that no side deals or hidden concessions are part of the framework, with any relief tied directly to progress in talks.
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