On May 23, Trump stated on social media that the U.S. and Iran have nearly reached an agreement, with the core element involving the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. On the same day, Iran, the United States, and the mediating party Pakistan all confirmed that the ceasefire negotiations, which have lasted nearly three months, have made critical progress, with all sides hinting at further announcements in the coming days. The U.S. said the negotiation progress was positive, while Iran indicated it was finalizing a memorandum of understanding, prioritizing the end of multi-front conflicts including in Lebanon. The talks are based on Iran’s 14-point proposal. The U.S. insists on Iran not developing nuclear weapons, the strait being open without tolls, and surrendering enriched uranium; Iran currently refrains from discussing nuclear issues and focuses on ending the war. Core differences remain, but signals of reconciliation continue to emerge.
The initiation of ceasefire negotiations between the U.S. and Iran marks a pragmatic de-escalation in their 70-year-long conflict. From the 1953 U.S.-UK intervention in Iran’s domestic politics, to the complete estrangement after the 1979 Iranian Revolution, to recent rounds of confrontation, deep-seated grievances have accumulated over decades. As the global energy chokepoint, the Strait of Hormuz handles about one-third of worldwide maritime oil transport, and its stability directly impacts the global economy. With the current regional situation being complex, both sides have mutual incentives for easing tensions, providing a realistic foundation for the ongoing negotiations. Historically, after the 1988 "Tanker War" phase of the Iran-Iraq War, a brief period of détente also occurred—but due to unresolved core differences, peace proved unsustainable. This time, adopting a step-by-step approach starting with a ceasefire followed by nuclear talks reflects a practical strategy. However, rebuilding trust will be far from easy. A temporary agreement may soon be finalized, but the real test lies ahead in subsequent negotiations over core issues.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1866024390077440/
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