Middle East crisis live: Iran says no final peace agreement reached, after Trump claims deal could be signed soon
Global Energy Tensions Rise as Middle East Peace Talks Hit Roadblocks
Middle East crisis live - The Guardian continues its real-time reporting on the escalating conflict in the Middle East, where diplomatic negotiations between the United States and Iran have sparked both optimism and skepticism. While President Donald Trump has asserted that a significant peace agreement could be finalized as early as this weekend, Iran’s foreign ministry has dismissed these claims, stating that no final conclusion has been reached. The situation, which has already caused thousands of casualties and driven global oil prices to unprecedented levels, remains in flux as key players negotiate terms.
Trump's Bold Statements Contradicted by Iranian Officials
During a press briefing at the White House, Trump declared that a "great settlement" with Iran was imminent, citing "discussions" at the highest level of Iranian leadership. "The strait of Hormuz will officially open as soon as we sign the deal, which could be soon, very soon, maybe over the weekend in Europe," he said. However, this optimism was quickly challenged by Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, who emphasized that while major sections of the proposed agreement had been drafted, "a final conclusion" had not yet been reached.
“This is a very important issue that is currently being reviewed by the relevant decision-making bodies,” Baghaei stated. “Tehran would not compromise on its red lines.”
Baghaei’s remarks highlight the persistent disagreements between the two nations, particularly over Iran’s nuclear program and its support for regional militant groups. Despite Trump’s insistence that all critical points had been approved, Iranian officials maintain that the deal is still subject to final approval and that key concessions remain unresolved.
Oil Markets Fluctuate Amid Uncertainty
The volatility of global energy markets has intensified in recent days, mirroring the political tensions in the region. When Trump first threatened military action against Iran, oil prices surged, reflecting fears of a broader conflict. However, the announcement of potential strikes was quickly followed by a sharp decline in prices, as the prospect of a peace deal offered hope of de-escalation.
On Thursday, US West Texas Intermediate crude futures dropped 1.9% to $86.08 a barrel, marking a continuation of the overnight decline. Meanwhile, Brent crude prices fell 1.5% to $89.08 a barrel, having already dropped nearly 3% in the previous session. These fluctuations underscore the delicate balance between military escalation and diplomatic resolution in the region.
International Reactions and Regional Impact
While the US and Iran continue their talks, the conflict has already drawn the involvement of multiple regional actors. Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon have intensified, with a recent strike reportedly wounding 10 hospital staff in the city of Tyre. This incident comes as all three hospitals in the historic city have been targeted since the war began in early March, intensifying humanitarian concerns.
India has voiced its concerns following the reported deaths of three Indian seafarers in US airstrikes targeting oil tankers near the strait of Hormuz. The country’s government issued a “strong protest,” emphasizing its reliance on Iranian oil imports and its desire for stability in the region. Meanwhile, Asian stock markets experienced a rally, with South Korea’s Kospi index rising 7.4% and Japan’s Nikkei gaining 2.7% as investors anticipated a potential end to hostilities.
Deal Terms and Geopolitical Implications
According to the prime minister’s office, an emerging memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran includes several critical measures: the removal of enriched uranium material, the dismantling of enrichment facilities, and limits on Iran’s missile production. These terms, however, are described as "red lines" by Iranian officials, who have consistently refused to abandon their nuclear program or reduce support for proxies such as Hezbollah.
Trump also mentioned the possibility of US forces seizing Kharg Island, a strategic location in the strait of Hormuz, as part of the deal. "If we sign this agreement, the seizure would be off the table," he clarified, though he had previously hinted at a potential military operation on social media. The conflicting statements have raised questions about the reliability of Trump’s promises and the true scope of the negotiations.
Diplomatic Moves and Military Readiness
As the talks progress, the US has deployed four air force planes to Europe, reportedly en route to Geneva for a possible signing ceremony. Sources cited by Axios suggest that Vice President JD Vance will represent the United States in the event of a deal, indicating the administration’s commitment to securing a resolution. However, the move has not quelled the uncertainty, with Iran maintaining its stance that the agreement is not yet finalized.
Iranian state media reported that its forces had intercepted a "violating tanker" near the strait of Hormuz, just hours after explosions were heard in the port city of Bandar Abbas. This incident highlights the ongoing militarization of the region, even as diplomatic efforts aim to prevent further conflict. The strait, a critical chokepoint for global oil exports, has become a focal point for both sides, with each claiming to control its fate.
Regional Players and the Path Forward
Despite Trump’s claims of a breakthrough, Israel has clarified its position, stating it is "not a party to" the proposed agreement. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, however, noted that he had engaged in discussions with Trump, suggesting that the deal could still involve Israeli interests. The inclusion of Iran’s support for terrorist proxies in the agreement has been a point of contention, with Israel and Saudi Arabia advocating for stricter conditions.
The negotiations also involve key allies such as the UAE, Qatar, Turkey, and Bahrain, all of whom have expressed support for a peaceful resolution. Yet, the absence of a final agreement has left the region in a state of limbo, with the potential for renewed violence looming. As the world watches, the outcome of these talks could reshape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.
Summary of Key Developments
Throughout the day, the crisis has been marked by a mix of diplomatic advances and military posturing. Trump’s assertions about a weekend deal have been met with cautious responses from Iran, which insists on maintaining its core demands. The fluctuating oil prices and international stock market reactions further illustrate the far-reaching consequences of the conflict. Meanwhile, the ongoing strikes in Lebanon and the deaths of Indian seafarers have reinforced the human toll of the situation.
As the talks continue, the role of regional actors remains crucial. The US and Iran have yet to solidify their positions, with both sides acknowledging the importance of the agreement but also the difficulty of reaching consensus. With the strait of Hormuz at the center of the dispute, the outcome of these negotiations could determine whether the war escalates or finds a path to peace.