TEHRAN: Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei has said that Tehran and Washington have reached a framework for discussions, but it cannot be said that a final agreement between the two countries is close.
Addressing a press briefing, the Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson said that talks are ongoing with the aim of ending conflicts, but clarified that Iran is not currently engaged in negotiations on its nuclear programme.
“We have reached a framework, but no one can say that an agreement between Iran and the United States is imminent,” Baghaei said.
He added that Iran is participating in diplomatic efforts focused on ending regional conflicts, while maintaining that nuclear-related talks are not part of the current discussions.
The spokesperson also stated that Pakistan currently has no plans to send a delegation in relation to the ongoing diplomatic process.
Baghaei said that a proposed 14-point memorandum of understanding is focused on ending hostilities and lifting what Iran describes as a US naval blockade. In return, Iran would take steps to ensure safe passage in the Strait of Hormuz.
He clarified that Iran would not impose a toll on passage through the Strait of Hormuz, but said that charging service fees for facilitation and maritime services is a common international practice and should not be described as a toll.
“Iran will not impose a toll in the Strait of Hormuz, but service charges for maritime facilitation are normal and should not be misunderstood as a toll,” he said.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson further said that any potential agreement would also include an end to conflicts across multiple regional fronts, including Lebanon and other conflict zones.
Analysts say the remarks indicate cautious diplomatic progress between Tehran and Washington, while also highlighting that significant gaps remain before any comprehensive agreement can be reached.
The developments come amid ongoing regional tensions and international efforts to reduce escalation in the Middle East, particularly involving maritime security and nuclear concerns.
Officials have not yet provided a timeline for further negotiations or possible high-level meetings between the two sides.
