US-Iran Deal Stalls Over 60-Day Nuclear Terms as Billions in Frozen Assets Hang in Balance
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · May 24
US-Iran Deal Stalls Over 60-Day Nuclear Terms as Billions in Frozen Assets Hang in Balance
14 articles · Updated · The Guardian · May 24
A final US-Iran memorandum expected Sunday in Pakistan looked unlikely after last-minute disputes over whether Tehran must accept nuclear commitments before broader talks begin.
Iran rejected reports it had agreed to ship enriched uranium abroad or cap enrichment for 10 years, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi saying such issues can only be discussed within a 60-day framework.
The emerging bargain would have Washington unfreeze billions of dollars in Iranian assets upfront while Iran gradually reopens the Strait of Hormuz and restores commercial traffic to prewar levels.
Critics in both parties say the war and blockade won no extra nuclear concessions, arguing Trump has spent billions only to return to roughly the same negotiating position as the 26 February Geneva talks.
Israel is still resisting parts of the wider memorandum, including Lebanon ceasefire language and Hormuz governance, underscoring that any nuclear accord would shift the conflict from military pressure back to difficult diplomacy.
With Iran's leader forbidding uranium exports, is a lasting nuclear peace deal truly possible?
Has the costly 'Operation Epic Fury' inadvertently strengthened Iran's grip on the Middle East?
Will global shipping soon pay an Iranian toll to pass through the Strait of Hormuz?
US-Iran Peace Talks 2026: Nuclear Disputes, Strait of Hormuz, and the Roadblocks to Lasting Stability
Overview
As of May 24, 2026, the US-Iran deal is at a critical negotiation stage, with President Trump expressing optimism but Iranian officials highlighting major unresolved issues. The main disagreements focus on the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s nuclear program, and conflicts involving Tehran-backed groups in Lebanon. According to a regional source, the deal is planned in two phases: first, Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz, assure it will not pursue nuclear weapons, and resume oil sales. These steps aim to ease tensions, but significant challenges remain before a comprehensive agreement can be reached.