President Trump has introduced changes to a potential deal framework aimed at ending the conflict in Iran. These changes have been sent back to Iran for consideration, according to three officials.
The exact modifications to the agreement remain unclear. However, Trump’s concerns particularly focus on sections involving the unfreezing of Iranian funds. He criticized former President Obama for similar actions in the past, specifically regarding a decade-old agreement aimed at limiting Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
Officials indicated that Trump’s amendments are a tougher version of the original framework. The goal is to accelerate Iran’s approval process by exerting pressure on Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader. Engaging with the leader has posed challenges, and any edits to the memorandum of understanding may cause further delays.
On Friday, Trump spent two hours in the Situation Room with senior aides discussing the war’s resolution but did not make any public declarations following the meeting.
The proposed framework seeks to cease the U.S.-Israeli military offensive against Iran if Iran agrees to lift its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. This strait is vital for transporting oil and gas and was operational before the bombing campaign, which began on February 28.
Highly sensitive issues, such as the future of Iran’s nuclear program, are set for discussion in later negotiations.
Reporting contributions by Aaron Boxerman and Farnaz Fassihi. Luke Broadwater covers the White House for The Times. Ronen Bergman is a New York Times Magazine staff writer based in Tel Aviv. Tyler Pager reports on President Trump and his administration as a White House correspondent for The Times.
