Iran Reopens Strait of Hormuz During Ceasefire
Iran announced on Friday that it will reopen the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping during a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Key Global Energy Route Back in Operation
The strategically important waterway, which had been closed since late February following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, is now “completely open” for commercial vessels, according to Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
Trump Confirms Reopening and Ongoing Blockade
U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the reopening, stating that the Strait of Hormuz is fully operational. However, he emphasized that the U.S. naval blockade targeting Iran will remain in place until a final agreement between Washington and Tehran is reached.
U.S.-Iran Negotiations Move Forward
The United States and Iran are currently negotiating a framework to end the conflict, which is approaching its 50-day mark. Reports indicate that discussions include a potential agreement involving the release of $20 billion in frozen Iranian assets in exchange for Iran reducing its enriched uranium stockpile.
Talks Expected to Resume This Weekend
Trump suggested that a second round of negotiations could take place over the weekend. The talks are expected to be held in Islamabad, with Pakistan acting as mediator alongside Egypt and Turkey.
Disputes Over Financial Terms Continue
Earlier proposals reportedly included a $6 billion U.S. offer for humanitarian aid, while Iran initially demanded $27 billion. The latest figure under discussion is $20 billion, which is seen as a compromise between both sides.
Uranium Stockpile at the Center of Negotiations
A major focus of the talks is Iran’s enriched uranium reserves, estimated at nearly 2,000 kilograms, including a significant portion enriched to 60% purity. Proposed solutions include transferring part of the material to a third country or reducing enrichment levels within Iran under international oversight.
Debate Over Nuclear Moratorium Length
The negotiations also include a proposed moratorium on Iran’s nuclear enrichment activities. The United States has pushed for a 20-year pause, while Iran has suggested a shorter five-year period, highlighting ongoing differences between the two sides.
