US-Iran Deal Nears Finish Line, But Supreme Leader’s Approval Remains Biggest Hurdle

Washington: For the first time, concrete progress has been seen in the ongoing tension between America and Iran. Negotiators of both countries have agreed to the proposal of a temporary ceasefire of 60 days. However, the agreement is not final yet. It is yet to get the approval of US President Donald Trump and Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei.

What is there in the proposed 60-day agreement?

According to reports quoting American officials, this agreement will be for 60 days. Its objective is to reduce military tension in the Gulf region, remove the US naval blockade and restore the movement of commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz. With this, the way for negotiations will also open for a comprehensive and permanent agreement on Iran's nuclear program.

Why was the agreement not finalized?

Reports suggest that Iran's supreme leader Khamenei has not yet given the green signal to the proposal. This is the reason why President Trump has also withheld the final consent. Sources say that despite the agreement at the negotiator level, it cannot be implemented without the approval of the top leadership of both countries.

What does Iran's official side say?

Iran's semi-official news agency Tasnim has rejected claims that a draft has been prepared. According to the agency, if a final draft is made, it will first be shared with the arbitrator countries. There will be a public announcement only after that.

What will be the conditions on the nuclear programme?

Under the proposal, Iran will have to assure that it will not take any steps towards developing nuclear weapons. In the initial talks, priority will be given to discussing the future of enriched uranium in Iran's possession. This has been the most sensitive issue between the two countries.

What will be the impact on the Strait of Hormuz?

Once the agreement is implemented, the Strait of Hormuz will be fully opened to international ships. No additional fees or tolls will be charged from ships. This is expected to provide relief to global trade and crude oil supply.

What will happen to naval mines?

According to the draft, Iran will have to remove all naval mines laid in the strait within the first 30 days. It is believed that these tunnels were laid to stop the movement of ships.

How will America lift the blockade?

In return, America will lift its naval blockade of Iranian ports in a phased manner. This process will depend on the pace of restoration of safe movement of commercial ships in Hormuz.

Is this a step towards lasting peace?

There have been positive signals among the negotiators, but the final decision lies in the hands of Trump and Khamenei. If both leaders approve the proposal, this agreement could prove to be an important step towards reducing tensions in West Asia and a comprehensive diplomatic solution in the future.