The United States and Iran entered the weekend with diplomatic activity accelerating, military readiness increasing, and control of the Strait of Hormuz remaining a central point of contention. Negotiators from both sides, supported by Pakistan and Qatar, reported measurable but incomplete progress toward a potential agreement, even as U.S. officials prepared for the possibility of renewed strikes.
Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, held high‑level talks in Tehran, which Pakistani officials described as “highly productive,” noting encouraging progress toward a final understanding. Iran’s Foreign Ministry, however, cautioned that disagreements remain “deep and extensive,” particularly over enriched uranium and the status of the Strait of Hormuz.
At the same time, the Trump administration signaled that military options remain active. U.S. military and intelligence leaders canceled Memorial Day leave as planning continued for potential new strikes, according to multiple reports. President Trump has stated the U.S. will only sign an agreement “if we get everything we want,” while also acknowledging that negotiations are “getting a lot closer.”
The Strait of Hormuz remains a defining issue. Iran has discussed establishing a permanent toll system with Oman and has reportedly offered to reopen the strait in exchange for U.S. compensation and progress on sanctions relief. U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have rejected any Iranian tolling system as “illegal.”
Despite the fragile ceasefire in place since April 8, both sides continue to posture. Iran has restricted western airspace through early Monday, echoing patterns seen before earlier strikes, while U.S. officials warn that renewed combat operations may be a matter of time if diplomacy fails.
Regional leaders from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Egypt, Türkiye, and Pakistan are expected to speak with President Trump as efforts intensify to finalize a ceasefire framework. Negotiators say a draft proposal includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, unfreezing some Iranian assets, and continuing talks on broader issues.
Sources
Times Now
The Independent
Rappler
U.S. News & World Report
The Jakarta Post
Gulf News
Al Arabiya
Fox News
Al Jazeera
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