Peace Treaty Finalised: Trump Says US, Iran Getting 'a Lot Closer' to Agreement
Former President Donald Trump announced on Monday that a peace treaty between the United States and Iran has been finalised, stating that the two nations are now 'a lot closer' to reaching a comprehensive agreement. The breakthrough comes after months of intense negotiations mediated by European and Middle Eastern diplomats.
Speaking at a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago estate, Trump said, 'We have a finalised peace treaty. Iran and the US are getting a lot closer to an agreement. This will be a great deal for both countries and for the world.' He did not provide specific details about the terms but hinted that it includes strict limits on Iran's nuclear enrichment capabilities and a lifting of certain economic sanctions.
Key Points of the Agreement
- Nuclear Program Restrictions: Iran agrees to cap uranium enrichment at 3.67% and allow international inspections under the IAEA.
- Sanctions Relief: The US will gradually lift sanctions related to Iran's oil exports and banking sector, pending compliance.
- Regional Security: Both nations commit to de-escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf and supporting stability in Iraq and Yemen.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh confirmed that a 'framework for peace' has been agreed upon, but emphasised that final signatures are pending approval from Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. 'We are cautiously optimistic,' Khatibzadeh said in a statement. 'The path forward is clear, but we must ensure our national interests are fully protected.'
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions from international allies. European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell welcomed the development, calling it 'a positive step towards lasting peace in the Middle East.' However, Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett expressed skepticism, warning that Iran cannot be trusted and that Israel reserves the right to defend itself against any threats.
Analysts say that if finalised, this treaty would mark a historic shift in US-Iran relations, which have been strained since the 1979 Iranian Revolution and the subsequent hostage crisis. The deal echoes the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), from which Trump withdrew in 2018, but with additional provisions addressing ballistic missiles and regional proxies.
Trump’s announcement comes as he considers a potential run for the presidency in 2024, and his critics accuse him of using foreign policy for political gain. Nevertheless, the prospect of a peace treaty has boosted optimism in global markets, with oil prices dipping slightly on the news.
Negotiators are expected to meet in Vienna within the next two weeks to finalise the text, with a signing ceremony tentatively scheduled for early June. The world watches closely as two longtime adversaries edge toward a historic rapprochement.
