Preliminary Agreement Between the US and Iran on Nuclear Negotiations

The United States and Iran have reportedly reached a preliminary agreement focused on extending a ceasefire and launching formal negotiations regarding Tehran's nuclear program. This 60-day memorandum is pending President Trump's approval, who has requested additional time to consider the details. The agreement includes significant commitments from both sides, such as guarantees for shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and discussions on Iran's nuclear stockpile. However, ongoing military tensions in the region and unresolved issues surrounding uranium enrichment and sanctions relief pose challenges to the negotiations. The outcome of this agreement could have far-reaching implications for diplomatic relations.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 28, 2026, 22:07 IST

Overview of the Agreement

Recent reports indicate that the United States and Iran have come to a preliminary understanding regarding a 60-day memorandum of understanding. This agreement aims to prolong the ceasefire and initiate formal discussions concerning Tehran's nuclear ambitions. However, it is still pending final approval from President Donald Trump.

As per Axios reporter Barak Ravid, US officials and regional mediators have stated that the negotiators from both nations have largely settled on the terms of the proposed framework earlier this week. Nevertheless, Trump has yet to endorse the agreement.

Trump's Consideration Period

US officials informed Axios that the details of the draft agreement were presented to Trump, who requested a few days to deliberate before making a conclusive decision. Iran has not publicly acknowledged its acceptance of the proposed terms.

One US official characterized the agreement as a 'mechanism to get everybody to the table,' with more contentious issues expected to be addressed during the 60-day timeframe.

Key Elements of the Draft Agreement

The proposed memorandum reportedly encompasses several significant commitments from both Washington and Tehran, including:

A 60-day extension of the ceasefire
Assurances for unrestricted commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz
Removal of Iranian naval mines within 30 days
Gradual lifting of the US naval blockade linked to restored shipping activities
Limited sanctions waivers permitting Iran to sell oil
Commitments from Iran to refrain from pursuing nuclear weapons
Direct negotiations regarding Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpile
Discussions on sanctions relief and the release of frozen Iranian assets
Humanitarian aid mechanisms for Iran

Additionally, the draft framework is said to include provisions aimed at de-escalating hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Ongoing Tensions Amid Negotiations

Despite the ongoing negotiations, military tensions in the region have reportedly persisted. Axios noted that US and Iranian forces were involved in two separate confrontations in the Strait of Hormuz within the last 48 hours, highlighting the precarious nature of the current ceasefire efforts.

The Trump administration views this proposed agreement as a litmus test to determine whether Iran is genuinely willing to engage in negotiations regarding its nuclear program and regional activities.

Importance of Frozen Assets

Sources familiar with the mediation efforts in Doha have indicated that discussions surrounding Iran’s frozen financial assets have played a crucial role in advancing negotiations. Qatari mediation has reportedly helped bridge gaps between Tehran and Washington, raising hopes for a broader diplomatic breakthrough.

However, officials caution that significant disagreements remain unresolved, particularly concerning uranium enrichment, sanctions relief, and Iran’s regional proxy networks.

Future Uncertainties

While the proposed memorandum could signify the most substantial diplomatic opening since the conflict began, US officials have warned that if negotiations do not succeed within the 60-day period, 'all options remain on the table,' which includes the possibility of renewed economic and military pressure.