U.S. and Iran Weigh Framework Deal Amid Disputes Over Sequencing and Regional Scope

Negotiations between the United States and Iran have entered a critical phase focused on the operational mechanics of a potential framework agreement. The current proposal centers on a 60-day negotiation clock and a phased reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. However, President Trump has emphasized a 'no rush' approach, stating that the U.S. military blockade of Iranian ports will remain in place until a final agreement is certified. While U.S. officials report progress on maritime issues, the sequencing of sanctions relief and military de-escalation remains a primary hurdle. On the nuclear front, negotiators have reportedly moved past the question of whether Iran will dispose of its highly enriched uranium stockpile, focusing instead on the specific methods of disposal. Despite this, Iranian officials maintain that nuclear concessions are not immediate and are intended for the later stages of the 60-day window. Tehran is also advocating for a broader regional settlement that includes an end to hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, a demand that expands the scope of the talks beyond bilateral U.S.-Iran concerns. Significant gaps remain as the two sides navigate shifting diplomatic positions. Key unknowns include the future of U.S. force posture in the region, potential limits on Iran’s ballistic missile program, and the status of wartime reparations. As of May 25, 2026, both sides describe the situation as a choice between a comprehensive deal or a continuation of the current stalemate, with no formal signing currently imminent.