US, Iran ‘close to framework deal’ to end conflict and revive nuclear talks: report

Washington: US officials and sources close to the White House claim that Washington and Tehran are nearing agreement on a preliminary framework to formally end hostilities and relaunch nuclear negotiations.

According to those familiar with the discussions, a one-page memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been drafted, marking the closest the two sides have come to a deal since the onset of the conflict.

A report by Axios said the United States is ожидаing a final response from Iran within the next 48 hours on several key points. While no document has yet been signed, advisers to Donald Trump, including Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, are said to be in ongoing direct and indirect contact with Iranian officials.

The proposed 14-point framework reportedly includes provisions for an immediate declaration to end the conflict upon signing the MoU, followed by a 30-day window for detailed negotiations, likely to be held in Islamabad or Geneva. These talks would address sanctions relief and the future of Iran’s nuclear programme.

During the interim period, restrictions on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and the US naval blockade would be gradually lifted.

On the nuclear issue, Iran is reportedly considering a suspension of uranium enrichment for 12 to 15 years, while Washington is pushing for a 20-year limit. The report also suggests Tehran has shown willingness to transfer its stockpile of highly enriched uranium from the country—potentially to the United States—marking a significant shift in policy.

In return, the US could release billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets and begin a phased easing of sanctions.

However, significant challenges remain. The White House believes divisions within Iran’s leadership could complicate consensus-building.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the situation as “highly complex and technical”, expressing cautious optimism about a diplomatic solution while criticising elements within the Iranian leadership—an indication that trust between the two sides remains fragile.

Officials also stressed that if negotiations collapse, the United States reserves the right to reinstate its naval blockade and resume military operations.