US and Iranian negotiators have reportedly agreed to a tentative framework that could extend their fragile ceasefire by 60 days and open the door to broader talks on Iran’s nuclear programme, according to US officials.
However, the deal is not yet final. Officials say it still requires approval from US President Donald Trump and Iran’s leadership before it can take effect.
The announcement comes at a tense moment, with renewed military activity in the region. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for an attack on a US air base following fresh US strikes on southern Iran overnight.
Both Washington and Tehran have accused each other of violating the ceasefire in recent days, casting doubt on the stability of the arrangement, which first came into effect on April 8.
Iran has not confirmed the US account of the latest framework. Iranian state media instead referenced an unofficial draft memorandum that reportedly includes proposals such as lifting restrictions on Iranian ports, reducing US military presence near Iran, and restoring maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz under joint regional oversight.
The White House, however, dismissed that version as inaccurate.
Despite the disagreement, reports suggest progress has been made in recent discussions, raising hopes that a more structured negotiation process could begin soon if the ceasefire extension is approved.
If agreed, the deal would allow both sides to move into more technical negotiations, particularly over Iran’s nuclear programme and its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Possible proposals reportedly include diluting or relocating the material.
US officials say key economic measures, including sanctions relief and oil trade allowances, could also form part of future discussions, though no final terms have been confirmed.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent declined to confirm that a deal had been reached, saying the final decision rests with President Trump.
“It’s always a mistake to get out ahead of the president,” he said, adding that “it is all going to be the president’s decision.”
While optimism is growing in some diplomatic circles, uncertainty remains high, with both sides still warning that a return to military confrontation cannot be ruled out if talks collapse.
