Reports indicate the United States and Iran are close to an accord that would extend a ceasefire for 60 days, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, permit Iran to export oil, and begin discussions to limit its nuclear activities, according to Axios. The details remain in draft form and have not been verified by Iranian officials, though Tehran has signaled progress. Similar elements appear in accounts from the Associated Press and New York Times. The arrangement could prevent further escalation and ease strain on global oil supplies, though it may not resolve all nuclear concerns raised by President Trump. Under the plan, Iran would remove mines from the waterway and permit free passage in return for the lifting of port restrictions by the United States. Announcement could come as early as Sunday, but the deal is not yet final. Hezbollah stated that Iran assured it of continued support and called for Lebanon to be included in any broader truce. Lebanese officials maintain that their separate negotiations with Israel under American mediation must remain distinct. Israeli forces have continued operations in Lebanon despite an extended truce, while Hezbollah has sustained attacks on Israeli positions. Iran has long insisted on a durable ceasefire in Lebanon before concluding its own agreement with Washington. A civil defense facility in southern Lebanon was struck and destroyed, with no reported casualties among staff who had already relocated. Officials condemned the attack on a humanitarian site. A central feature of the proposed US-Iran understanding involves Tehran committing to relinquish its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, though specifics would be addressed in later talks. Iran initially resisted including this point early but relented after US negotiators threatened to withdraw. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated President Trump on the diplomatic efforts and expressed hope that Pakistan could host further US-Iran discussions soon. Sharif noted a productive call involving leaders from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, Egypt, the UAE, Jordan, and Pakistan, with the Pakistani army chief also participating.
