Trump signals potential breakthrough in Iran negotiations, says deal 'largely negotiated' and Strait of Hormuz to reopen

May 23, 2026

President Trump signals a potential breakthrough with Iran, stating a deal to end a months-long war is 'largely negotiated.' The framework reportedly includes a 60-day ceasefire, unfreezing Iranian assets, and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Iran disputes the terms for the strait, while Israel expresses concern the deal neglects its nuclear program. The diplomatic push, mediated by Pakistan, also faces criticism from some US Republicans.

US-Iran negotiations framework

▪The framework would initiate a period of at least 30 days for further negotiations on Iran's nuclear program.
▪The proposed agreement would end hostilities, gradually reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and end the US blockade of Iranian ports.
▪President Donald Trump announced on May 23, 2026, that a broader agreement between the United States and Iran has been "largely negotiated."
▪The deal includes unfreezing some Iranian assets held in foreign banks and a 60-day ceasefire that could be extended.

Strait of Hormuz reopening dispute

▪Iran's state-affiliated Fars news agency disputed Trump's claim, reporting the Strait of Hormuz will remain under Iranian control.
▪Fars News clarified that while vessel traffic may return to pre-war levels, this does not constitute "free passage."
▪President Donald Trump stated the agreement would result in the Strait of Hormuz being opened.

Regional mediation efforts

▪President Trump held a conference call with leaders from Gulf states, Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, and Pakistan to discuss the Iran situation.
▪During the call, regional leaders urged President Trump to accept the proposed framework with Iran.
▪Mediators from Qatar and Pakistan held talks in Tehran on Saturday, May 23, 2026, to advance the deal.

Republican criticism of Iran deal

▪Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) warned that pursuing an agreement with Iran "risks a perception of weakness."
▪Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo criticized the potential deal, calling it "Not remotely America First."
▪Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) expressed concern that a deal could make Iran seem like a dominant "force requiring a diplomatic solution."

Israeli concerns over nuclear program

▪Israel's primary concern is that the interim agreement will not address Iran's nuclear program or its stockpile of enriched uranium.
▪Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was scheduled to hold a limited security consultation on May 23, 2026, to discuss the negotiations.
▪Israeli officials stated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is highly concerned and has urged President Trump to launch more military strikes.