US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth said on Wednesday that Washington is prepared to return to military action if negotiations with Iran fail to ensure that the Islamic Republic never acquires a nuclear weapon.Speaking at a White House Cabinet meeting, Hegseth said President Donald Trump had created the conditions to protect Americans and the wider world from what he called a generational threat from Iran.&nbsp;“There’s only one man over the course of both presidencies who has stood up and said they will never get a nuclear weapon,” Hegseth said, referring to Trump.&nbsp;<h2>‘US avoided old approach of Iraq and Afghanistan wars’</h2>&nbsp;Hegseth cited the killing of Qasem Soleimani, withdrawal from the Obama-era nuclear deal, the 12-day war and subsequent US military operations against Iran as part of a broader pressure campaign aimed at stopping Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.He said the US had avoided the “old approach” of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-pull-back-forces-from-iran-s-vicinity-lift-naval-blockade-claims-iran-s-state-media-1779889541135">US to pull back forces from Iran’s vicinity, lift naval blockade, claims Iran’s state media</a>&nbsp;“Instead, you said, we’re going to do this smart. We’re going to do it overwhelming. We’re going to use maximum lethality. And we’re going to bring them to their knees,” Hegseth said, referring to Trump.He said Iran’s navy was “at the bottom of the Persian Gulf” and that its air force, air defences and defence industrial base had been heavily damaged.&nbsp;“They may have missiles, but they can’t build more right now. And they can’t build more drones right now. And they can’t build more ships,” he said.Hegseth said it was those losses that made Tehran come to talks with US envoys, including Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner and Vice President JD Vance.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-push-for-muslim-nations-joining-abraham-accords-puts-pakistan-in-a-fix-1779729876943">Trump’s push for Muslim nations to join Abraham Accords puts Pakistan in a fix</a><h2>‘US imposed a world-class blockade, their economy is hurting big time’</h2>&nbsp;Hegseth further said that the US had imposed a “world-class blockade” on Iranian ports, preventing goods from entering or leaving and badly hurting Iran’s economy.“We know from the intel that their economy is hurting big time because that is their lifeblood,” he said.The US defence secretary added that Washington had expanded pressure on Iran’s shadow tanker fleet.“No Iranian tanker around the globe is safe,” he said, pointing to seizures that he said had further choked off Tehran’s economic lifeline.Hegseth added that the goal remained to ensure Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon, either through negotiations or, if necessary, by returning to military action.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/undeclared-chemical-weapons-from-former-president-assad-era-found-in-syria-1779829277892">Undeclared chemical weapons from former president Assad-era found in Syria</a><h2>‘Iran negotiating on fumes, will blow up Oman if…’</h2>&nbsp;Speaking in the cabinet meeting earlier, Trump said that Iran is “negotiating on fumes” and needs to make a deal.&nbsp;&nbsp;Referring to the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said, “Nobody's going to control it. We're going to watch over it. We'll watch over it. But nobody's going to control it. That's part of the negotiation that we have. They would like to control it. Nobody's going to control it. It's international waters. And Oman will behave just like everybody else, or we'll have to blow them up. They understand that. They'll be fine.”&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Oil will be lower than pre-conflict levels when this ends,’ says Bessent</h2>&nbsp;Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that oil prices will be lower than before the Iran war when the conflict ends.“Oil will be lower than pre-conflict levels when this ends,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/skill-chance-irrelevant-if-money-staked-sc-upholds-retrospective-28-gst-levy-on-online-gaming-companies-1779884645944">‘Skill, chance irrelevant if money staked’: SC upholds retrospective 28% GST levy on online gaming companies</a><h2>‘Iran is never going to have a nuclear weapon’: Rubio</h2>&nbsp;US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said President Donald Trump prefers a negotiated diplomatic path with Iran and that talks have made some progress, but warned that Washington has other options if diplomacy fails.“The bottom line is Iran is never going to have a nuclear weapon,” Rubio said, adding that the recent events had reinforced Washington’s view that Tehran should never be allowed to obtain one.“If there’s an agreement to be made, we want that to be made,” Rubio said.He said there has been “some progress and some interest” in the talks, and that Washington would see “over the next few hours and days” whether further progress could be made.Rubio said the United States would give diplomacy “every chance to succeed,” but added that Trump had other options available if negotiations failed.

US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth said the US had imposed a world-class blockade on Iranian ports, preventing goods from entering or leaving and badly hurting Iran’s economy. He added that intel reports show that Iran’s economy is hurting big time.

US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth said on Wednesday that Washington is prepared to return to military action if negotiations with Iran fail to ensure that the Islamic Republic never acquires a nuclear weapon. Speaking at a White House Cabinet meeting, Hegseth said President Donald Trump had created the conditions to protect Americans and the wider world from what he called a generational threat from Iran. “There’s only one man over the course of both presidencies who has stood up and said they will never get a nuclear weapon,” Hegseth said, referring to Trump. ‘US avoided old approach of Iraq and Afghanistan wars’ Hegseth cited the killing of Qasem Soleimani, withdrawal from the Obama-era nuclear deal, the 12-day war and subsequent US military operations against Iran as part of a broader pressure campaign aimed at stopping Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. He said the US had avoided the “old approach” of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Also Read: US to pull back forces from Iran’s vicinity, lift naval blockade, claims Iran’s state media “Instead, you said, we’re going to do this smart. We’re going to do it overwhelming. We’re going to use maximum lethality. And we’re going to bring them to their knees,” Hegseth said, referring to Trump. He said Iran’s navy was “at the bottom of the Persian Gulf” and that its air force, air defences and defence industrial base had been heavily damaged. “They may have missiles, but they can’t build more right now. And they can’t build more drones right now. And they can’t build more ships,” he said. Hegseth said it was those losses that made Tehran come to talks with US envoys, including Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner and Vice President JD Vance. Also Read: Trump’s push for Muslim nations to join Abraham Accords puts Pakistan in a fix ‘US imposed a world-class blockade, their economy is hurting big time’ Hegseth further said that the US had imposed a “world-class blockade” on Iranian ports, preventing goods from entering or leaving and badly hurting Iran’s economy. “We know from the intel that their economy is hurting big time because that is their lifeblood,” he said. The US defence secretary added that Washington had expanded pressure on Iran’s shadow tanker fleet. “No Iranian tanker around the globe is safe,” he said, pointing to seizures that he said had further choked off Tehran’s economic lifeline. Hegseth added that the goal remained to ensure Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon, either through negotiations or, if necessary, by returning to military action. Also Read: Undeclared chemical weapons from former president Assad-era found in Syria ‘Iran negotiating on fumes, will blow up Oman if…’ Speaking in the cabinet meeting earlier, Trump said that Iran is “negotiating on fumes” and needs to make a deal. Referring to the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said, “Nobody's going to control it. We're going to watch over it. We'll watch over it. But nobody's going to control it. That's part of the negotiation that we have. They would like to control it. Nobody's going to control it. It's international waters. And Oman will behave just like everybody else, or we'll have to blow them up. They understand that. They'll be fine.” ‘Oil will be lower than pre-conflict levels when this ends,’ says Bessent Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that oil prices will be lower than before the Iran war when the conflict ends. “Oil will be lower than pre-conflict levels when this ends,” he said. Also Read: ‘Skill, chance irrelevant if money staked’: SC upholds retrospective 28% GST levy on online gaming companies ‘Iran is never going to have a nuclear weapon’: Rubio US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said President Donald Trump prefers a negotiated diplomatic path with Iran and that talks have made some progress, but warned that Washington has other options if diplomacy fails. “The bottom line is Iran is never going to have a nuclear weapon,” Rubio said, adding that the recent events had reinforced Washington’s view that Tehran should never be allowed to obtain one. “If there’s an agreement to be made, we want that to be made,” Rubio said. He said there has been “some progress and some interest” in the talks, and that Washington would see “over the next few hours and days” whether further progress could be made. Rubio said the United States would give diplomacy “every chance to succeed,” but added that Trump had other options available if negotiations failed.

US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth said the US had imposed a world-class blockade on Iranian ports, preventing goods from entering or leaving and badly hurting Iran’s economy. He added that intel reports show that Iran’s economy is hurting big time.

US ready to resume military action if Iran peace negotiations fail, says Pete Hegseth

Iran’s state television claimed on Wednesday that the US military forces would withdraw from areas around Iran and will lift the naval blockade on Iranian ports, and in return Tehran will restore commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz to pre-war levels within a month. However, military vessels would be outside the scope of the proposed arrangement as per the draft memorandum of understanding under discussion.&nbsp;The report also said that Iran and Oman would jointly oversee shipping routes and traffic management through the critical waterway, which handles nearly a fifth of global oil and LNG flows.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, the United States denied the Iranian state TV report, and called it a ‘complete fabrication’.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-push-for-muslim-nations-joining-abraham-accords-puts-pakistan-in-a-fix-1779729876943">Trump’s push for Muslim nations to join Abraham Accords puts Pakistan in a fix</a>&nbsp;Multiple earlier reports said that negotiators from both sides were working on a broader 14-point understanding aimed at ending hostilities and reopening shipping lanes. The framework discussions reportedly include issues like sanctions relief, release of frozen Iranian assets and freedom for Iran to resume oil exports.&nbsp;Iran’s state TV further said that if a final deal is reached within 60 days after the MoU signing, this agreement will be approved in the form of a binding UN Security Council resolution.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/undeclared-chemical-weapons-from-former-president-assad-era-found-in-syria-1779829277892">Undeclared chemical weapons from former president Assad-era found in Syria</a>&nbsp;The memorandum is not yet finalised, and no step would be taken without a “tangible verification” by Iran, it said.&nbsp;&nbsp;The report by Iranian state TV indicates that Iran and the United States are moving to a potential framework agreement that could ease tensions in West Asia and bring relief to the global economy, which is sagging amid growing concerns over energy supply disruptions and elevated crude prices.The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most critical energy chokepoints, and hence the ongoing negotiations are being closely watched by global markets.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/skill-chance-irrelevant-if-money-staked-sc-upholds-retrospective-28-gst-levy-on-online-gaming-companies-1779884645944">‘Skill, chance irrelevant if money staked’: SC upholds retrospective 28% GST levy on online gaming companies</a>&nbsp;An agreement that leads to normalisation of traffic via Hormuz would ease concerns over supply disruptions and crude price volatility and bring relief to major energy importers like India.&nbsp;The Hormuz Strait has remained the key point in the negotiations, as hundreds of vessels were stranded in the Gulf. However, the contentious issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme, remain unresolved.&nbsp;<h2>‘Complete fabrication’: US says report from Iranian-controlled media not true</h2>&nbsp;The United States refuted the Iranian state television report on the terms of agreement and said, “This report from Iranian controlled media is not true and the MOU they ‘released’ is a complete fabrication. Nobody should believe what Iranian state media is putting out. FACTS MATTER.”

Iran’s state TV said that the memorandum is not yet finalised, and no step would be taken without a tangible verification by Iran. It added that if a final deal is reached within 60 days after the MoU, the agreement will be approved in the form of a binding UN Security Council resolution.

Iran’s state television claimed on Wednesday that the US military forces would withdraw from areas around Iran and will lift the naval blockade on Iranian ports, and in return Tehran will restore commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz to pre-war levels within a month. However, military vessels would be outside the scope of the proposed arrangement as per the draft memorandum of understanding under discussion. The report also said that Iran and Oman would jointly oversee shipping routes and traffic management through the critical waterway, which handles nearly a fifth of global oil and LNG flows. However, the United States denied the Iranian state TV report, and called it a ‘complete fabrication’. Also Read: Trump’s push for Muslim nations to join Abraham Accords puts Pakistan in a fix Multiple earlier reports said that negotiators from both sides were working on a broader 14-point understanding aimed at ending hostilities and reopening shipping lanes. The framework discussions reportedly include issues like sanctions relief, release of frozen Iranian assets and freedom for Iran to resume oil exports. Iran’s state TV further said that if a final deal is reached within 60 days after the MoU signing, this agreement will be approved in the form of a binding UN Security Council resolution. Also Read: Undeclared chemical weapons from former president Assad-era found in Syria The memorandum is not yet finalised, and no step would be taken without a “tangible verification” by Iran, it said. The report by Iranian state TV indicates that Iran and the United States are moving to a potential framework agreement that could ease tensions in West Asia and bring relief to the global economy, which is sagging amid growing concerns over energy supply disruptions and elevated crude prices. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most critical energy chokepoints, and hence the ongoing negotiations are being closely watched by global markets. Also Read: ‘Skill, chance irrelevant if money staked’: SC upholds retrospective 28% GST levy on online gaming companies An agreement that leads to normalisation of traffic via Hormuz would ease concerns over supply disruptions and crude price volatility and bring relief to major energy importers like India. The Hormuz Strait has remained the key point in the negotiations, as hundreds of vessels were stranded in the Gulf. However, the contentious issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme, remain unresolved. ‘Complete fabrication’: US says report from Iranian-controlled media not true The United States refuted the Iranian state television report on the terms of agreement and said, “This report from Iranian controlled media is not true and the MOU they ‘released’ is a complete fabrication. Nobody should believe what Iranian state media is putting out. FACTS MATTER.”

Iran’s state TV said that the memorandum is not yet finalised, and no step would be taken without a tangible verification by Iran. It added that if a final deal is reached within 60 days after the MoU, the agreement will be approved in the form of a binding UN Security Council resolution.

US to pull back forces from Iran’s vicinity, lift naval blockade, claims Iran’s state media; White House denies

US media outlets reported on Sunday that the peace agreement with Iran is not likely to be signed today, as the details of the agreement are still being negotiated. A senior administration official was quoted as saying that details of the agreement are still being finalised.Another official said that Iran has committed in principle to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and disposing of its stockpile of enriched uranium.An Axios report, citing a senior Trump official, said a deal is not expected to be signed on Sunday due to ongoing back and forth over certain parts of the agreement.“Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is also reported to have approved the broad template of the agreement,” the official told Ravid.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-iran-agree-in-principle-to-reopen-strait-of-hormuz-says-senior-official-1779651528322">US and Iran agree in principle to reopen Strait of Hormuz, says senior official</a><h2>‘Disarming is ‘unacceptable’, amounts to ‘annihilation’</h2>&nbsp;Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem on Sunday urged the Lebanese government to abandon direct talks with Israel.The Islamic Resistance, the military wing of Hezbollah, quoted Qassem as saying that disarming Hezbollah is “unacceptable” and amounted to “annihilation”. It also said that direct negotiations are “unacceptable” and represent a “victory” for Israel.Lebanon is preparing for a new round of talks with Israel early next month.&nbsp;Naim Qassem has also called upon the Lebanese government to “reverse the decisions it has taken to criminalise the resistance”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-india-can-count-on-me-100-i-am-a-big-fan-of-pm-modi-says-trump-in-phone-call-at-delhi-event-1779642795192">‘India can count on me 100%. I am a big fan of PM Modi,‘ says Trump in phone call at Delhi event</a><h2>Iranians face power blackouts, urged to curb use</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;Iran is reeling under long powercuts after US-Israeli attacks on power plants damaged them, said Iran’s First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref.Some power plants “cannot provide the production needed by the industry, and we are forced to supply them with electricity from the grid”, Aref was quoted by state-linked ISNA as saying.“Our general discussion is on using energy optimally and appropriately,” he added.The oil minister urged Iranians to limit fuel consumption earlier this week after damage to energy infrastructure.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trump-agreed-final-agreement-with-iran-must-remove-nuclear-danger-says-netanyahu-1779638705604">‘Trump agreed final agreement with Iran must remove nuclear danger,’ says Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Israel seeks freedom to attack Hezbollah under deal’</h2>&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pressed President Donald Trump to maintain Israel’s freedom to attack Hezbollah in Lebanon under a memorandum of agreement with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.“President Trump made clear that he will stand firm in the negotiations on his longstanding demand for the dismantling of Iran’s nuclear programme and the removal of all enriched uranium from its territory, and that he will not sign a final agreement without these conditions being met,” the source added.&nbsp;President Trump said if he makes a deal with Iran, it will be a “good and proper one.”&nbsp;&nbsp;“It isn’t even fully negotiated yet. So don’t listen to the losers, who are critical about something they know nothing about.”

Iran is reeling under long powercuts after US-Israeli attacks on power plants damaged them, said Iran’s first vice president, Mohammad Reza Aref. The oil minister urged Iranians to limit fuel consumption earlier this week after damage to energy infrastructure.

US media outlets reported on Sunday that the peace agreement with Iran is not likely to be signed today, as the details of the agreement are still being negotiated. A senior administration official was quoted as saying that details of the agreement are still being finalised. Another official said that Iran has committed in principle to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and disposing of its stockpile of enriched uranium. An Axios report, citing a senior Trump official, said a deal is not expected to be signed on Sunday due to ongoing back and forth over certain parts of the agreement. “Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is also reported to have approved the broad template of the agreement,” the official told Ravid. Also Read: US and Iran agree in principle to reopen Strait of Hormuz, says senior official ‘Disarming is ‘unacceptable’, amounts to ‘annihilation’ Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem on Sunday urged the Lebanese government to abandon direct talks with Israel. The Islamic Resistance, the military wing of Hezbollah, quoted Qassem as saying that disarming Hezbollah is “unacceptable” and amounted to “annihilation”. It also said that direct negotiations are “unacceptable” and represent a “victory” for Israel. Lebanon is preparing for a new round of talks with Israel early next month. Naim Qassem has also called upon the Lebanese government to “reverse the decisions it has taken to criminalise the resistance”. Also Read: ‘India can count on me 100%. I am a big fan of PM Modi,‘ says Trump in phone call at Delhi event Iranians face power blackouts, urged to curb use Iran is reeling under long powercuts after US-Israeli attacks on power plants damaged them, said Iran’s First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref. Some power plants “cannot provide the production needed by the industry, and we are forced to supply them with electricity from the grid”, Aref was quoted by state-linked ISNA as saying. “Our general discussion is on using energy optimally and appropriately,” he added. The oil minister urged Iranians to limit fuel consumption earlier this week after damage to energy infrastructure. Also Read: ‘Trump agreed final agreement with Iran must remove nuclear danger,’ says Netanyahu ‘Israel seeks freedom to attack Hezbollah under deal’ Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pressed President Donald Trump to maintain Israel’s freedom to attack Hezbollah in Lebanon under a memorandum of agreement with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. “President Trump made clear that he will stand firm in the negotiations on his longstanding demand for the dismantling of Iran’s nuclear programme and the removal of all enriched uranium from its territory, and that he will not sign a final agreement without these conditions being met,” the source added. President Trump said if he makes a deal with Iran, it will be a “good and proper one.” “It isn’t even fully negotiated yet. So don’t listen to the losers, who are critical about something they know nothing about.”

Iran is reeling under long powercuts after US-Israeli attacks on power plants damaged them, said Iran’s first vice president, Mohammad Reza Aref. The oil minister urged Iranians to limit fuel consumption earlier this week after damage to energy infrastructure.

US-Iran deal signing in a few days, terms of agreement being finalised: Reports

The United States and Iran have agreed in principle to a deal for winding down the war by reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a senior US official told reporters on Sunday. Even as American and Iranian officials describe the terms differently, the official said Iran had also agreed to dispose of highly enriched uranium but added that a deal had not yet been signed.&nbsp;Neither the Iranian leadership nor its state media has publicly commented on the terms of a potential agreement or what is being discussed.&nbsp;&nbsp;The US official said a deal had not yet been signed and was still subject to final approval from President Donald Trump and Iran’s supreme leader, which could take some days.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-india-can-count-on-me-100-i-am-a-big-fan-of-pm-modi-says-trump-in-phone-call-at-delhi-event-1779642795192">‘India can count on me 100%. I am a big fan of PM Modi,‘ says Trump in phone call at Delhi event</a><h2>Mechanism for Iran’s disposal of its enriched uranium &nbsp;being negotiated</h2>&nbsp;The senior official said the mechanism by which Iran would dispose of its highly enriched uranium was still being negotiated. Trump has insisted that the US seize the material as part of his vow to curb Iran’s nuclear programme.&nbsp;News of a probable deal came after a lot of back and forth between the two sides and with Trump threatening to restart attacks on Iran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trump-agreed-final-agreement-with-iran-must-remove-nuclear-danger-says-netanyahu-1779638705604">‘Trump agreed final agreement with Iran must remove nuclear danger,’ says Netanyahu</a> On Saturday, the US president announced on social media that the two countries had “largely negotiated” a memorandum of understanding “pertaining to peace.”However, on Sunday, Trump said he had ordered his negotiators “not to rush into a deal.”&nbsp;<h2>‘US could end its blockade of Iranian ports’</h2>&nbsp;Trump said in his social media post on Sunday that if a deal gets approved, the US could end its blockade of Iranian ports, which it had used to pressure Tehran to reopen the strait.Over the last 24 hours, both the US and Iranian officials have been stressfully mentioning the concessions they hope to secure.Three Iranian officials said on Saturday that the agreement would specify that the nuclear issue would be negotiated within 30 to 60 days.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-hormuz-traffic-will-return-to-pre-war-levels-within-30-days-after-deal-1779633685669">Iran says Hormuz traffic will return to pre-war levels within 30 days after deal</a>&nbsp;US and Iranian officials have said that any agreement would be an initial framework that would lead to further negotiations.&nbsp;The conflict has killed thousands, rattled global energy markets and been broadly unpopular among the American public.&nbsp;<h2>‘Iran will never have nuclear weapons,’ Netanyahu, Trump agree</h2>&nbsp;The talk of a potential deal was received with concern in Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday that he and Trump remained united in their stance that Iran will never have nuclear weapons.&nbsp;Three senior Iranian officials told The New York Times that it would halt the fighting on all fronts, including Lebanon.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-president-pezeshkian-says-iran-ready-to-assure-world-it-s-not-seeking-nuclear-weapons-1779627310359">Iran’s president Pezeshkian says Iran ready to assure world it’s not seeking nuclear weapons</a>&nbsp;Senator Cory Booker, Democrat of New Jersey, said on CNN that President Trump was “being played as a fool” over the possible deal. Senator Roger Wicker, Republican of Mississippi, who is chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, called the emerging proposal “a disaster” and cast doubt on the notion that Iran would “ever engage in good faith.”

The senior US official said the mechanism by which Iran would dispose of its highly enriched uranium was still being negotiated. Trump has insisted that the US seize the material as part of his vow to curb Iran’s nuclear programme.

The United States and Iran have agreed in principle to a deal for winding down the war by reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a senior US official told reporters on Sunday. Even as American and Iranian officials describe the terms differently, the official said Iran had also agreed to dispose of highly enriched uranium but added that a deal had not yet been signed. Neither the Iranian leadership nor its state media has publicly commented on the terms of a potential agreement or what is being discussed. The US official said a deal had not yet been signed and was still subject to final approval from President Donald Trump and Iran’s supreme leader, which could take some days. Also Read: ‘India can count on me 100%. I am a big fan of PM Modi,‘ says Trump in phone call at Delhi event Mechanism for Iran’s disposal of its enriched uranium being negotiated The senior official said the mechanism by which Iran would dispose of its highly enriched uranium was still being negotiated. Trump has insisted that the US seize the material as part of his vow to curb Iran’s nuclear programme. News of a probable deal came after a lot of back and forth between the two sides and with Trump threatening to restart attacks on Iran. Also Read: ‘Trump agreed final agreement with Iran must remove nuclear danger,’ says Netanyahu On Saturday, the US president announced on social media that the two countries had “largely negotiated” a memorandum of understanding “pertaining to peace.” However, on Sunday, Trump said he had ordered his negotiators “not to rush into a deal.” ‘US could end its blockade of Iranian ports’ Trump said in his social media post on Sunday that if a deal gets approved, the US could end its blockade of Iranian ports, which it had used to pressure Tehran to reopen the strait. Over the last 24 hours, both the US and Iranian officials have been stressfully mentioning the concessions they hope to secure. Three Iranian officials said on Saturday that the agreement would specify that the nuclear issue would be negotiated within 30 to 60 days. Also Read: Iran says Hormuz traffic will return to pre-war levels within 30 days after deal US and Iranian officials have said that any agreement would be an initial framework that would lead to further negotiations. The conflict has killed thousands, rattled global energy markets and been broadly unpopular among the American public. ‘Iran will never have nuclear weapons,’ Netanyahu, Trump agree The talk of a potential deal was received with concern in Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday that he and Trump remained united in their stance that Iran will never have nuclear weapons. Three senior Iranian officials told The New York Times that it would halt the fighting on all fronts, including Lebanon. Also Read: Iran’s president Pezeshkian says Iran ready to assure world it’s not seeking nuclear weapons Senator Cory Booker, Democrat of New Jersey, said on CNN that President Trump was “being played as a fool” over the possible deal. Senator Roger Wicker, Republican of Mississippi, who is chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, called the emerging proposal “a disaster” and cast doubt on the notion that Iran would “ever engage in good faith.”

The senior US official said the mechanism by which Iran would dispose of its highly enriched uranium was still being negotiated. Trump has insisted that the US seize the material as part of his vow to curb Iran’s nuclear programme.

US and Iran agree in principle to reopen Strait of Hormuz, says senior official

Amid strong hopes of an agreement between the United States and Iran, President Donald Trump on Sunday (May 24) said that “The negotiations are proceeding in an orderly and constructive manner” and that he informed US representatives “not to rush into a deal, as time is on our side”.&nbsp;The US president, in a Truth Social post, also added that “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!”&nbsp;He pointed out that Washington’s “relationship with Iran is becoming a much more professional and productive one,” adding that “they cannot develop or procure a Nuclear Weapon or Bomb”.&nbsp;“I would like to thank, thus far, all of the countries of the Middle East for their support and cooperation,” Trump said, and speculated that “it will be further enhanced and strengthened by their joining the Nations of the historic Abraham Accords and, who knows, perhaps the Islamic Republic of Iran would like to join, as well!”&nbsp;The American leader accused former president Barack Obama of making “one of the worst deals” that was “a direct path to Iran developing a Nuclear Weapon”.&nbsp;“One of the worst deals ever made by our Country was the Iran Nuclear Deal, put forth and signed into existence by Barack Hussein Obama and the rank amateurs of the Obama Administration. It was a direct path to Iran developing a Nuclear Weapon. Not so with the transaction currently being negotiated with Iran by the Trump Administration,” he wrote on social media.&nbsp;The development came hours after Donald Trump said on Truth Social that he had a “very good call” with Gulf leaders as well as Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir over discussions focused on Iran and “all things related to a Memorandum of Understanding pertaining to peace”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-it-shot-down-israeli-drone-amid-signs-of-possible-us-iran-peace-deal-report-1779623758466">Iran says it shot down Israeli drone amid signs of possible US-Iran peace deal: Report</a>&nbsp;Trump also said he had spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and claimed that an agreement had been “largely negotiated”, while the final details were still under discussion and could be announced shortly. He further stated that the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened as part of the proposed deal.&nbsp;Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is on a four-day visit to India, told reporters in New Delhi on Sunday that there was a possibility of “good news” regarding a peace agreement with Iran.&nbsp;“I do think perhaps there is the possibility that in the next few hours the world will get some good news,” he said when asked by reporters about a deal being reached between the US and Iran.

Trump highlighted that negotiations were proceeding in an orderly and constructive manner and that Washington’s “relationship with Iran is becoming a much more professional and productive one”.

Amid strong hopes of an agreement between the United States and Iran, President Donald Trump on Sunday (May 24) said that “The negotiations are proceeding in an orderly and constructive manner” and that he informed US representatives “not to rush into a deal, as time is on our side”. The US president, in a Truth Social post, also added that “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!” He pointed out that Washington’s “relationship with Iran is becoming a much more professional and productive one,” adding that “they cannot develop or procure a Nuclear Weapon or Bomb”. “I would like to thank, thus far, all of the countries of the Middle East for their support and cooperation,” Trump said, and speculated that “it will be further enhanced and strengthened by their joining the Nations of the historic Abraham Accords and, who knows, perhaps the Islamic Republic of Iran would like to join, as well!” The American leader accused former president Barack Obama of making “one of the worst deals” that was “a direct path to Iran developing a Nuclear Weapon”. “One of the worst deals ever made by our Country was the Iran Nuclear Deal, put forth and signed into existence by Barack Hussein Obama and the rank amateurs of the Obama Administration. It was a direct path to Iran developing a Nuclear Weapon. Not so with the transaction currently being negotiated with Iran by the Trump Administration,” he wrote on social media. The development came hours after Donald Trump said on Truth Social that he had a “very good call” with Gulf leaders as well as Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir over discussions focused on Iran and “all things related to a Memorandum of Understanding pertaining to peace”. Also Read: Iran says it shot down Israeli drone amid signs of possible US-Iran peace deal: Report Trump also said he had spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and claimed that an agreement had been “largely negotiated”, while the final details were still under discussion and could be announced shortly. He further stated that the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened as part of the proposed deal. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is on a four-day visit to India, told reporters in New Delhi on Sunday that there was a possibility of “good news” regarding a peace agreement with Iran. “I do think perhaps there is the possibility that in the next few hours the world will get some good news,” he said when asked by reporters about a deal being reached between the US and Iran.

Trump highlighted that negotiations were proceeding in an orderly and constructive manner and that Washington’s “relationship with Iran is becoming a much more professional and productive one”.

‘Don’t rush into deal’: Trump says Iran blockade to remain until agreement is signed

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Sunday that Tehran is ready to assure the world that it is not seeking nuclear weapons and added that Iran does not aim to create unrest in the region and will not compromise on its ‘honour’ in striking a deal for peace with the United States. Pezeshkian further said that no decision will be made in Iran outside the framework of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) and without the permission of the Supreme Leader as the framework for a US-Iran deal is emerging.&nbsp;“We are ready to assure the world that we are not seeking nuclear weapons. We are not seeking instability in the region,” Pezeshkian said in comments released Sunday on Iranian state TV.&nbsp;“We are not seeking unrest in the region,” Pezeshkian told IRNA and alleged that “the one seeking to destabilise the region” is Israel.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-iran-getting-a-lot-closer-to-deal-with-us-tehran-also-shares-optimism-1779569215142">Trump says Iran ‘getting a lot closer’ to deal with US; Tehran also shares optimism</a>&nbsp;Iran, which avows to destroy Israel, has a stockpile of more than 400 kg of uranium that has been enriched to a level which is a short technical step short of weapons-grade. The UN atomic agency says Iran’s enriched uranium has no civilian use.&nbsp;&nbsp;Israeli officials, meanwhile, say that Iran’s uranium is sufficient for making 11 nuclear bombs if enriched further.Pezeshkian also said that Tehran’s negotiating team “will not compromise the country’s honour and pride in any way.” His comment comes at a time when a deal to end the war with the US seemingly moves closer.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump made calls to other allies in the region and said a deal on the conflict in the Middle East, including opening the Strait of Hormuz, has been “largely negotiated”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-talks-will-collapse-if-the-us-doesn-t-show-flexibility-iran-s-media-1779559398097">‘Talks will collapse if the US doesn't show flexibility’: Iran’s media</a>&nbsp;Pezeshkian’s stress on giving an assurance to the world about not seeking nuclear weapons follows reports in some American media outlets that Iran has accepted commitments like reducing nuclear stockpiles, removing equipment, or shutting down certain facilities in a potential agreement with Washington.&nbsp;Sources from the negotiating process emphasised that no clause about Iran’s nuclear commitments has been included in the draft of the potential agreement and that all matters related to the nuclear programme have been deferred to the 60-day negotiations following the signing of the agreement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-top-negotiator-ghalibaf-warns-us-of-crushing-bitter-consequences-if-it-foolishly-restarts-war-1779538273012">Iran’s top negotiator Ghalibaf warns US of ‘crushing and bitter’ response if it ‘foolishly’ restarts war</a><h2>‘Iran world’s leading sponsor of terrorism,’ says Rubio</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has accused Iran of sponsoring ‘terrorism’ across the world.“No nation on earth sponsors more terrorism than Iran,” Rubio said at a news conference in New Delhi and alleged that Iran invests in sponsoring Hezbollah and Hamas.“The world’s leading sponsor of terrorism is Iran. Look at what they are doing now. They are holding hostage civilian vessels. … They’ve laid mines in an international waterway,” he said.&nbsp;

Iranian sources privy to the negotiation process said that no clause about Iran’s nuclear commitments has been included in the draft of a potential agreement and that all matters related to the nuclear programme have been deferred to the 60-day negotiations after the signing of the agreement.

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Sunday that Tehran is ready to assure the world that it is not seeking nuclear weapons and added that Iran does not aim to create unrest in the region and will not compromise on its ‘honour’ in striking a deal for peace with the United States. Pezeshkian further said that no decision will be made in Iran outside the framework of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) and without the permission of the Supreme Leader as the framework for a US-Iran deal is emerging. “We are ready to assure the world that we are not seeking nuclear weapons. We are not seeking instability in the region,” Pezeshkian said in comments released Sunday on Iranian state TV. “We are not seeking unrest in the region,” Pezeshkian told IRNA and alleged that “the one seeking to destabilise the region” is Israel. Also Read: Trump says Iran ‘getting a lot closer’ to deal with US; Tehran also shares optimism Iran, which avows to destroy Israel, has a stockpile of more than 400 kg of uranium that has been enriched to a level which is a short technical step short of weapons-grade. The UN atomic agency says Iran’s enriched uranium has no civilian use. Israeli officials, meanwhile, say that Iran’s uranium is sufficient for making 11 nuclear bombs if enriched further. Pezeshkian also said that Tehran’s negotiating team “will not compromise the country’s honour and pride in any way.” His comment comes at a time when a deal to end the war with the US seemingly moves closer. US President Donald Trump made calls to other allies in the region and said a deal on the conflict in the Middle East, including opening the Strait of Hormuz, has been “largely negotiated”. Also Read: ‘Talks will collapse if the US doesn't show flexibility’: Iran’s media Pezeshkian’s stress on giving an assurance to the world about not seeking nuclear weapons follows reports in some American media outlets that Iran has accepted commitments like reducing nuclear stockpiles, removing equipment, or shutting down certain facilities in a potential agreement with Washington. Sources from the negotiating process emphasised that no clause about Iran’s nuclear commitments has been included in the draft of the potential agreement and that all matters related to the nuclear programme have been deferred to the 60-day negotiations following the signing of the agreement. Also Read: Iran’s top negotiator Ghalibaf warns US of ‘crushing and bitter’ response if it ‘foolishly’ restarts war ‘Iran world’s leading sponsor of terrorism,’ says Rubio Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has accused Iran of sponsoring ‘terrorism’ across the world. “No nation on earth sponsors more terrorism than Iran,” Rubio said at a news conference in New Delhi and alleged that Iran invests in sponsoring Hezbollah and Hamas. “The world’s leading sponsor of terrorism is Iran. Look at what they are doing now. They are holding hostage civilian vessels. … They’ve laid mines in an international waterway,” he said.

Iranian sources privy to the negotiation process said that no clause about Iran’s nuclear commitments has been included in the draft of a potential agreement and that all matters related to the nuclear programme have been deferred to the 60-day negotiations after the signing of the agreement.

Iran’s president Pezeshkian says Iran ready to assure world it’s not seeking nuclear weapons

Iran has claimed that its military shot down an Israeli surveillance drone in Hormozgan province, Iran’s Mehr news agency reported, amid growing expectations that a memorandum of understanding linked to a possible Iran-US peace agreement could soon be announced.&nbsp;The report said the wreckage of the destroyed Orbiter drone, described as an Israeli-made unmanned aircraft, was recovered with the help of Iranian naval forces. However, the Israel Defence Forces said it was not aware of any such incident.&nbsp;The development came hours after US President Donald Trump said on Truth Social that he had a “very good call” with Gulf leaders as well as Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir. Trump said the discussions focused on Iran and “all things related to a Memorandum of Understanding pertaining to peace”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-s-debangshu-panda-leads-west-bengal-s-falta-repoll-by-over-1-lakh-votes-jahangir-khan-slips-to-fourth-1779621420220">BJP’s Debangshu Panda leads West Bengal’s Falta repoll by over 1 lakh votes, Jahangir Khan slips to fourth</a>&nbsp;Trump also said he had spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and claimed that an agreement had been “largely negotiated”, while the final details were still under discussion and could be announced shortly. He further stated that the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened as part of the proposed deal.&nbsp;Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is on a four-day visit to India, told reporters in New Delhi on Sunday that there was a possibility of “good news” regarding a peace agreement with Iran.&nbsp;"I do think perhaps there is the possibility that in the next few hours the world will get some good news," he said when asked about a deal being reached between the US and Iran by reporters.&nbsp;(This is a developing story; further details awaited)&nbsp;

The development came hours after US President Donald Trump said on Truth Social that an agreement had been “largely negotiated”, while the final details were still being discussed and could be announced shortly.

Iran has claimed that its military shot down an Israeli surveillance drone in Hormozgan province, Iran’s Mehr news agency reported, amid growing expectations that a memorandum of understanding linked to a possible Iran-US peace agreement could soon be announced. The report said the wreckage of the destroyed Orbiter drone, described as an Israeli-made unmanned aircraft, was recovered with the help of Iranian naval forces. However, the Israel Defence Forces said it was not aware of any such incident. The development came hours after US President Donald Trump said on Truth Social that he had a “very good call” with Gulf leaders as well as Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir. Trump said the discussions focused on Iran and “all things related to a Memorandum of Understanding pertaining to peace”. Also Read: BJP’s Debangshu Panda leads West Bengal’s Falta repoll by over 1 lakh votes, Jahangir Khan slips to fourth Trump also said he had spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and claimed that an agreement had been “largely negotiated”, while the final details were still under discussion and could be announced shortly. He further stated that the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened as part of the proposed deal. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is on a four-day visit to India, told reporters in New Delhi on Sunday that there was a possibility of “good news” regarding a peace agreement with Iran. "I do think perhaps there is the possibility that in the next few hours the world will get some good news," he said when asked about a deal being reached between the US and Iran by reporters. (This is a developing story; further details awaited)

The development came hours after US President Donald Trump said on Truth Social that an agreement had been “largely negotiated”, while the final details were still being discussed and could be announced shortly.

Iran says it shot down Israeli drone amid signs of possible US-Iran peace deal: Report

As US President Donald Trump hinted that the US and Iran deal may be announced soon, it was reported that Iran has agreed to give up its stockpile of highly enriched uranium and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. In a report, the New York Times cited two unnamed US officials and said that Iran has committed in a general statement to giving up the uranium but exact details on how it will relinquish it has not been finalized. The NYT also quoted three senior Iranian officials and said that Tehran has agreed to “a memorandum of understanding that would stop the fighting and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.” Axios reported that there would be 60-day ceasefire extension during which the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened, Iran would be able to freely sell oil, and negotiations would be held on curbing Iran's nuclear program, according to a US official.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/multiple-gunshots-fired-near-white-house-secret-service-fbi-respond-where-is-us-president-donald-trump-1779581551548">Multiple gunshots fired near White House; Secret Service, FBI respond: Where is Donald Trump?</a><h2>What more is included in the deal?</h2>The report about uranium comes days after it was reported that Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei issued a directive that the near-weapons-grade uranium should not be sent abroad. Iran has a stockpile of more than 400 kilograms of highly enriched uranium in its possession. Additionally, in the deal that is to be finalised between the two sides, the US would release $25 billion in Iranian assets frozen overseas. The Times quoted officials saying that the agreement “would halt fighting on all fronts, including in Lebanon.” They add that its terms focus “on opening the strait— including lifting the US naval blockade against Iran and allowing free commercial traffic without Iran charging any tolls.” The officials also added that Iran’s nuclear program will be negotiated within 30 to 60 days. However, Iran’s Fars news agency slammed Trump for claiming that the deal is done and the Strait of Hormuz will reopen&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-iran-us-agreement-largely-negotiated-pakistan-pm-hopes-to-host-next-round-of-talks-iran-us-war-strait-of-hormuz-1779585420095">Pakistan PM hopes to host next round of talks - Is the war finally ending?</a><h2>Trump says Iran-US agreement ‘largely negotiated’</h2>US President Donald Trump took to Truth Social and said that he had a “very good call” with leaders of the Gulf nations as well as with Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir and revealed that an agreement has been “largely negotiated,” but “final aspects and details of the deal are currently being discussed, and will be announced shortly." He added that the Strait of Hormuz will be opened as part of the deal. After Trump's post, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharifexpressed hope that his country might be hosting the leaders of Iran and the US for next round of talks.

Iran has reportedly agreed to give up its highly enriched uranium under a proposed US-backed peace deal aimed at ending the war. Donald Trump said the agreement is “largely negotiated,” with talks also focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

As US President Donald Trump hinted that the US and Iran deal may be announced soon, it was reported that Iran has agreed to give up its stockpile of highly enriched uranium and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. In a report, the New York Times cited two unnamed US officials and said that Iran has committed in a general statement to giving up the uranium but exact details on how it will relinquish it has not been finalized. The NYT also quoted three senior Iranian officials and said that Tehran has agreed to “a memorandum of understanding that would stop the fighting and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.” Axios reported that there would be 60-day ceasefire extension during which the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened, Iran would be able to freely sell oil, and negotiations would be held on curbing Iran's nuclear program, according to a US official. Also Read: Multiple gunshots fired near White House; Secret Service, FBI respond: Where is Donald Trump? What more is included in the deal? The report about uranium comes days after it was reported that Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei issued a directive that the near-weapons-grade uranium should not be sent abroad. Iran has a stockpile of more than 400 kilograms of highly enriched uranium in its possession. Additionally, in the deal that is to be finalised between the two sides, the US would release $25 billion in Iranian assets frozen overseas. The Times quoted officials saying that the agreement “would halt fighting on all fronts, including in Lebanon.” They add that its terms focus “on opening the strait— including lifting the US naval blockade against Iran and allowing free commercial traffic without Iran charging any tolls.” The officials also added that Iran’s nuclear program will be negotiated within 30 to 60 days. However, Iran’s Fars news agency slammed Trump for claiming that the deal is done and the Strait of Hormuz will reopen Also Read: Pakistan PM hopes to host next round of talks - Is the war finally ending? Trump says Iran-US agreement ‘largely negotiated’ US President Donald Trump took to Truth Social and said that he had a “very good call” with leaders of the Gulf nations as well as with Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir and revealed that an agreement has been “largely negotiated,” but “final aspects and details of the deal are currently being discussed, and will be announced shortly." He added that the Strait of Hormuz will be opened as part of the deal. After Trump's post, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharifexpressed hope that his country might be hosting the leaders of Iran and the US for next round of talks.

Iran has reportedly agreed to give up its highly enriched uranium under a proposed US-backed peace deal aimed at ending the war. Donald Trump said the agreement is “largely negotiated,” with talks also focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

Has Iran agreed to surrender enriched uranium and reopen Hormuz in new US deal?