The United States and Iran are reportedly close to signing an agreement aimed at ending their war, according to three regional officials who spoke with The Associated Press on Friday.
A senior U.S. official said the tentative deal includes provisions for the removal and destruction of Iran’s nuclear material. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also signaled progress, posting on X that an agreement “has never been closer,” though he noted that a final deal has not yet been completed.
The apparent breakthrough follows several days of exchanges of fire involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, raising fears that the Middle East could slide back into a wider regional conflict.
President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated in recent weeks that the two countries were nearing a deal. The conflict, which began on February 28, severely disrupted the region, affecting oil and natural gas shipments through the Persian Gulf. A fragile ceasefire has remained in effect since April 7.
Regional officials said the proposed agreement is expected to include the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the gradual lifting of sanctions on Iran, and the release of frozen Iranian assets. Because of the sensitivity of the negotiations, the officials spoke on condition of anonymity.
According to a senior U.S. official, key elements of the deal would require Iran to dismantle its nuclear program, remove and destroy nuclear materials, and agree to stop funding groups designated by the United States as terrorist organizations.
Iran’s nuclear activities have long been a central point of dispute. The United States and Israel argue that the program could lead to the development of nuclear weapons, while Tehran maintains that its nuclear efforts are intended solely for peaceful purposes.
The Strait of Hormuz remains another major issue. As one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes, disruptions there have affected global energy supplies, increased fuel costs, and contributed to higher prices for goods worldwide.
Officials indicated that a formal signing ceremony could take place within days if both Washington and Tehran approve the final terms.
Vice President JD Vance described the potential agreement as a significant opportunity, saying it could “remake the region and lead to lasting peace.”
Despite the reported progress, tensions remain high. President Trump warned Iranian leaders on social media that they “better get their act together, and FAST!”
Israel has stated that it is not a party to the negotiations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated that Israel and the United States remain united in their position that Iran must not obtain nuclear weapons.
The negotiations have reportedly been facilitated primarily by Pakistan, with support from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and Qatar, in an effort to secure a broader regional peace agreement.
