Washington/Cairo, May 28: The United States and Iran have reportedly reached a preliminary agreement to extend their ongoing ceasefire for another 60 days, a major diplomatic development that could ease tensions in the Middle East and restore unrestricted shipping through the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz.
However, the proposed deal is still awaiting final approval from US President Donald Trump, while Iranian state media has indicated that the agreement has not yet been formally finalized.
According to sources familiar with the negotiations, the proposed extension would allow free movement of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz while both sides continue discussions on contentious issues, including Iran’s nuclear program, sanctions relief and regional security arrangements.
Biggest Step Toward Peace Since Conflict Began
If approved by leadership in Washington and Tehran, the agreement would mark the most significant progress toward ending hostilities since the conflict erupted on February 28.
The development follows a fresh round of limited military exchanges between the two nations, underlining the fragile nature of the current ceasefire that came into effect in early April.
US Vice President JD Vance expressed cautious optimism over the negotiations.
“We’re not there yet, but we’re very close and we’re going to keep working at it,” Vance told reporters in Washington.
He added, “I can’t guarantee that we’re going to get there, but right now I feel pretty good about it.”
Shipping Through Strait of Hormuz at Core of Deal
A key provision of the proposed agreement would guarantee unrestricted commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy corridor that handles nearly 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supply.
The deal would also reportedly require:
- Lifting of restrictions on Iranian ports
- Partial easing of sanctions on Iranian oil exports
- Maintenance of ceasefire conditions for 60 days
News of the possible breakthrough triggered a decline in global oil prices, reflecting market hopes for regional stability.
Fresh Military Escalations Raise Concerns
Despite progress in negotiations, tensions remain high.
US Central Command said American forces intercepted five Iranian attack drones and destroyed a control station near Bandar Abbas that was preparing to launch another drone.
Kuwait also intercepted a ballistic missile allegedly fired toward its territory.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned of a stronger response if further attacks occur, while Kuwait condemned the escalation.
Regional Diplomacy Intensifies
The ceasefire talks come amid increased regional mediation efforts.
Pakistan confirmed that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington, signaling ongoing diplomatic engagement.
Meanwhile, tensions involving Israel and Hezbollah continue to complicate the broader regional peace process.
US Warns Oman Amid Strait of Hormuz Dispute
The US has also warned Oman against supporting any effort with Iran to impose tolls in the Strait of Hormuz.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Oman has denied plans for such a move, while Iran expressed solidarity with Muscat following what it described as “US threats.”
The proposed ceasefire extension now hinges on political approval from both capitals, with global markets closely watching the next move.
About the Author
