US and Iran close to finalising one-page accord to end war, Axios reports

The United States and Iran are close to a preliminary agreement on a one-page memorandum aimed at ending the conflict and launching detailed nuclear negotiations, Axios reported on Wednesday, May 6, citing sources familiar with the talks. Washington expects Tehran to respond within 48 hours on several key issues, the report said, describing the current stage as the closest the two sides have come to a deal since the start of the conflict. According to Axios, the draft framework includes a commitment by Iran to halt uranium enrichment, while the United States would ease sanctions and release billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets. The proposal also outlines steps by both sides to remove restrictions affecting transit through the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. President Donald Trump has already signalled a diplomatic opening, saying he paused the “Project Freedom” operation; a mission aimed at securing maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, citing progress in negotiations. The proposed memorandum would mark the end of hostilities and initiate a 30-day period of negotiations toward a broader agreement covering Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, and the reopening of key shipping routes. Sources told Axios that the next phase of talks could take place in Pakistan or Geneva, while Iran is expected to gradually ease restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz during the interim period. Despite the progress, U.S. officials believe divisions within Iran’s leadership could complicate efforts to secure a final agreement. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, through which a significant share of global oil and gas supplies passes. Disruptions in the waterway during the conflict have raised concerns over global energy markets and shipping security. The “Project Freedom” operation was launched by the United States to ensure safe passage for commercial vessels amid rising tensions in the Gulf. Trump’s decision to pause the mission reflects a shift toward diplomacy, though previous rounds of negotiations between Washington and Tehran have failed to produce a lasting agreement. The post US and Iran close to finalising one-page accord to end war, Axios reports appeared first on Khaama Press.