U.S. Maintains Sanctions and Military Posture on Iran Over Nuclear Program and Strait of Hormuz

Negotiations between the United States and Iran have continued for weeks after a ceasefire took effect. Both sides have signaled possible progress yet remain divided on core demands. The ceasefire has now lasted longer than the period of major hostilities. Exchanges of fire continue every other day or so in or around the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran, having seized control of the Strait of Hormuz at the beginning of the conflict, does not want to give it back. The United States wants a return to the status quo in the key waterway. Iran also wishes to rebuild a nuclear program from its current conditions.

It appears willing to accept some form of time-limited restrictions in return for large amounts of money. The president wants Iran’s highly enriched uranium brought out of the country or rendered safe under international supervision. The Iranians appear to be in no hurry to agree to this.

Such a deal would be politically painful for President Donald Trump to sell to Senate Republicans. It would also be subject to review by Congress. The structure mirrors the nuclear diplomacy of former President Barack Obama. Recurring suggestions of an imminent agreement have not produced a final text.

“Iran and the U.S. keep promising they’re on the verge of a deal, but they are each demanding things the other won’t agree to.”