Mixed signals from Washington and Tehran
President Donald Trump on Thursday called off the latest threats to strike Iran, claiming a breakthrough in negotiations had brought the two countries closer than ever to ending the war that began in early 2026. "We are very close to signing a deal," Trump told reporters. However, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi pushed back hours later, stating no final peace agreement has been reached and that significant gaps remain between the two sides.
Fragile ceasefire under strain
The conflicting statements come amid ongoing instability across the Middle East. A US-mediated ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, announced June 2, remains fragile after Hezbollah reportedly rejected key terms. The deal requires a complete cessation of Hezbollah fire and removal of all operatives from southern Lebanon. Meanwhile, Iran has fired at Kuwait and Bahrain following US airstrikes that destroyed Iranian radar sites.
What a deal would look like
Diplomatic sources suggest the emerging framework includes a phased lifting of US sanctions, a freeze on Iran's uranium enrichment above 3.67%, and mutual withdrawal of forces from contested Persian Gulf areas. The US also reportedly conducted a secret mission to secure oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Observers warn that with both sides making maximalist public statements, the path to a signed agreement remains uncertain.