Bloomberg: Trump leaves key Iran deal issues for later

A preliminary agreement between the United States and Iran to halt hostilities and reopen shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains fragile, with major disputes unresolved, Bloomberg reported.

The outlet said after more than two months of tense negotiations, Washington and Tehran have agreed on a temporary framework that includes a 60-day period for further talks on the most sensitive issues, particularly Iran’s nuclear program. A memorandum of understanding is expected to be formally signed on June 19.

However, experts warn that the most difficult phase is only beginning. The current draft does not resolve key questions, including potential U.S. economic relief for Iran, the future of its nuclear program, and its ballistic missile capabilities, raising doubts over whether a final agreement can be reached.

Michael O’Hanlon, director of foreign policy research at the Brookings Institution, made it clear that the sides may have agreed only to a limited reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, while a comprehensive settlement remains unlikely.

A major obstacle remains deep mutual distrust between the two sides. U.S. officials suspect Iran of seeking to revive its nuclear program, while Iranian officials accuse Washington of carrying out strikes during the negotiations.

According to Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi, the country will continue preparing for potential threats even if a final deal is signed, warning that adversaries may attempt to derail the agreement.

The role of the US Congress also remains uncertain, as any significant easing of sanctions would require Senate approval under post-2015 nuclear deal legislation.

Concerns have also been raised by allies of US President Donald Trump. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said he will closely monitor the negotiations and warned about possible differences in interpretation between the two sides.

Unresolved issues also include Iran’s support for groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas, as well as its missile program, with no indication that these topics will be included in the next round of talks.

Analysts also point to the position of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who remains skeptical about any deal that would satisfy Israeli security concerns. Experts say the outcome will depend on whether the Trump administration can prevent regional allies from actions that could undermine the negotiations.

Atlantic Council expert Nate Swanson added that mechanisms for restoring full maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remain unclear, warning that the situation will likely stay unstable even after any agreement is signed.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov