US and Iran Report Significant Progress in Talks to End War

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio Announces Progress in Talks to End US-Israeli War on Iran

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced that significant progress has been made in talks to end the US-Israeli war on Iran. The announcement comes hours after President Donald Trump claimed that a memorandum of understanding to end the fighting was “largely negotiated”.

According to Rubio, the emerging deal would address concerns about the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has largely blocked since February 28. Under the potential agreement, the number of vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz would return to pre-war levels within 30 days.

The US naval blockade on Iranian ports must be completely lifted within 30 days, according to the potential memorandum of understanding. Part of Iran’s frozen funds must also be released in the first phase of the agreement. The deal includes an end to the war on all fronts, including in Lebanon.

Negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme would continue over a 60-day period after the potential agreement is signed. The measures on the Strait of Hormuz would take effect over a 30-day period. Iran has emphasized that any potential agreement with the US is conditional on the release of at least part of its frozen funds.

The talks are ongoing, and Rubio stated that “some progress has been made” but not final progress. He also expressed optimism that the world may receive good news soon. The agreement would aim to create a world where there is no longer fear or worry about an Iranian nuclear weapon.

Source: Al Jazeera