Trump Hails Iran Breakthrough as Deal Talks Continue

Negotiations between the US and Iran are entering a crucial phase, though a final agreement has not yet been secured. Donald Trump has announced that a framework agreement could be signed as early as Sunday, while Pakistan is preparing the technical steps to confirm it electronically.

Iran, however, says the document has not been finalized, with experts continuing to assess its political, legal and technical aspects. Qatar is playing a key role in the talks, with its negotiators having arrived in Tehran to help conclude the negotiations.

The draft agreement reportedly envisages the opening of the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for the release of frozen Iranian assets and an easing of sanctions on oil exports. Separate negotiations on Iran's nuclear program would follow. The prospect of a deal is complicated both by opposition from Iranian conservatives and by ongoing military operations in the region.

(reuters, mja)