By Blessing Nweke
US President Donald Trump has instructed American negotiators “not to rush into a deal” with Iran, despite earlier comments suggesting an agreement was close
The proposed arrangement reportedly includes a 60-day ceasefire extension, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and further negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said talks were progressing “constructively” but stressed that “both sides must take their time and get it right.”
The latest remarks came after Trump stated on Saturday that an agreement had been “largely negotiated,” raising expectations of a possible breakthrough. Iranian officials also signaled cautious optimism, with foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei saying the two sides were simultaneously “very close and very far” from a deal.
According to US media reports, the current proposal is viewed as a temporary framework rather than a final settlement. Major issues, including sanctions relief, the release of frozen Iranian assets, and limits on Iran’s nuclear activities, would be negotiated later.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said discussions included plans to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and launch “significant, time-limited” nuclear talks.
The potential agreement has divided Republicans. Senator Ted Cruz warned it would be “a disastrous mistake,” while Representative Mike Lawler argued the administration had successfully pressured Iran into serious negotiations.
Tensions escalated after US and Israeli strikes on Iran in February triggered retaliatory attacks and disrupted global energy supplies through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
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