U.S.-Iran Draft Framework Moves Closer To Preliminary Ceasefire Deal

The United States and Iran are discussing a draft memorandum that could form the basis of a temporary agreement to reduce tensions and begin wider negotiations on the ongoing conflict, according to a report by Business Standard citing officials and diplomats involved in the talks.

The proposed framework, which is yet to receive approval from U.S. President Donald Trump, is expected to outline terms for a nonaggression arrangement between Washington and Tehran while opening the door for further discussions on Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions, maritime trade and frozen assets.

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According to the report, negotiators from both countries have been working through mediators from Pakistan and Qatar after several earlier attempts failed due to disagreements over the terms of engagement.

Ceasefire Terms Under Discussion

As per the reports, diplomats involved in the negotiations said the draft agreement proposes an initial 60-day pause in hostilities to allow formal negotiations between both sides.

The proposal is also expected to include a regional component linked to Lebanon. Iranian officials and diplomats cited in the report said the discussions involve reducing military activity involving the Iran-backed Hezbollah group.

However, differences remain over the exact duration and scope of the arrangement. Iranian officials reportedly described the proposal as a declaration to end military action across all fronts during the negotiation period, while U.S. officials referred to it as a temporary framework.

Strait Of Hormuz Remains Key Focus

The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz has emerged as one of the central issues in the negotiations.

The agreement could allow commercial shipping through the route during the talks. Around one-fifth of global oil and gas shipments passed through the waterway before the conflict disrupted movement in the region.

The report said the U.S. position supports an immediate reopening of the strait, while some restrictions linked to the American naval blockade could be eased gradually depending on the restoration of maritime traffic.

Iranian negotiators have reportedly continued discussions on possible service fees for vessels passing through the route after the temporary agreement period ends.

Nuclear Talks And Frozen Assets

The draft proposal also includes plans for future negotiations over Iran’s uranium stockpile and sanctions relief.

Business Standard reported that discussions on Iran’s enriched uranium reserves would be deferred to a second phase of talks. The proposal also includes a commitment from Washington not to tighten sanctions during negotiations.

Another major element under discussion is the release of frozen Iranian assets held overseas. According to the report, Iran has sought access to as much as $20 billion in frozen funds as part of the broader negotiations.

The report added that negotiators are also discussing an international investment and reconstruction programme for Iran that could be implemented if a final agreement is reached.