The proposed memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the United States and Iran may take a few more days to finalise, according to CNN, as both sides continue work on the pact’s language and approval process.
Citing a senior US official, CNN reported that the delay depends largely on how quickly Iran prepares the required documents and drafts.
US officials believe Iran has agreed in principle to the major points of the deal, but discussions are still continuing over the wording of some terms and conditions.
Strait of Hormuz, nuclear program in focus
According to the report, the MoU will provide a framework for future talks on a ceasefire, the restoration of the Strait of Hormuz and Iran’s nuclear program.
Sources said the United States is still finalising language on “a couple of points” before the proposed agreement can move forward.
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CBS News reported that messages being sent to Iran’s Supreme Leader are among the reasons for the delay.
US media said the Iranian Supreme Leader is in a secret location where access is difficult, while messages to Mojtaba Khamenei are also taking time.
Trump had said deal was imminent
President Donald Trump declared on Saturday that a deal was imminent, but officials later sought to lower expectations that it would be announced over the weekend.
A US official said the timeline now depends on how quickly Iran responds to wording requests made by Washington.
Once all sides reach final agreement, an in-person signing ceremony is expected between US and Iranian officials. The ceremony could be followed immediately by another round of negotiations on the next phase of the deal.
Earlier on Friday, Trump had said he informed US representatives not to rush into any agreement with Iran. He further said one of the worst agreements ever made by the United States was the Iran nuclear deal concluded during the administration of former president Barack Obama.
Also Read: Trump tells US negotiators not to hurry Iran deal talks
In a statement issued by the The White House, Trump said inexperienced officials in the Obama administration negotiated and implemented the agreement, which he described as a direct path for Iran to develop nuclear weapons.
He said the agreement currently under discussion with Iran was entirely different in nature, adding that US representatives had been instructed not to hurry the process. He said sanctions and the blockade would remain fully enforced and effective until an agreement was finalised.
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