Washington / Islamabad / New Delhi — The United States and Iran appear to be moving closer to a preliminary agreement that could reopen the Strait of Hormuz and strengthen the fragile ceasefire that followed months of regional conflict.

U.S. President Donald Trump said Saturday that significant progress had been made in negotiations surrounding a proposed memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran. In a post on social media, Trump said the “final aspects” of the agreement were still being discussed and that an announcement could come soon.

Reports from American and Iranian media suggest the proposed framework would gradually reduce tensions by reopening the Strait of Hormuz, easing restrictions on Iranian oil exports, and launching wider negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program.

The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes, has faced severe disruption since the United States and Israel launched military operations against Iran in late February. The conflict triggered major instability in global energy markets and sharply increased fuel prices worldwide.

According to reports, the proposed deal could include a 60-day extension of the current ceasefire while negotiations continue over Iran’s uranium enrichment activities and stockpiles of highly enriched uranium.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio hinted during a visit to India that positive developments regarding the Strait of Hormuz could emerge within hours.

American outlet Axios reported that the framework may allow Iran to resume oil exports more freely in exchange for commitments related to its nuclear program. The report also said Washington could ease restrictions on Iranian ports and provide limited sanctions relief.

Iran has repeatedly denied seeking nuclear weapons, insisting its nuclear activities are intended for peaceful civilian purposes. However, Western governments continue to push for stricter controls on Tehran’s enrichment activities.

Sources familiar with the negotiations told Reuters that the proposed framework would likely move through several stages, beginning with formally ending the war, resolving the Strait of Hormuz crisis, and later launching broader negotiations on regional and nuclear issues.

Regional diplomacy has intensified in recent days, with Trump reportedly holding talks with leaders from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Jordan, Egypt, Turkey, and Pakistan regarding the proposed agreement.

Despite growing optimism, Iranian officials stressed that several unresolved issues remain under discussion and warned that negotiations are still ongoing.