By TRH World Desk
Despite ceasefire holding, disputes over Iran’s nuclear programme and the Strait of Hormuz keep prospects of a breakthrough uncertain.
Washington, May 23, 2026 — US President Donald Trump has claimed that the “final aspects” of a possible agreement with Iran are being worked out. His remarks came after a series of intensive discussions with leaders in the Middle East. But key disputes over Iran’s nuclear programme and control over the Strait of Hormuz continue to threaten progress, said sources.
Trump posted on social media that negotiations were moving toward closure after a marathon round of diplomatic outreach. The remarks came amid renewed regional engagement, including Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian receiving Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir in Tehran.
The CBS News in a report said Trump has spent weeks trying to bridge differences between Washington and Tehran, but major disagreements remain unresolved. One of the biggest flashpoints is the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow waterway through which nearly one-fifth of global oil supplies pass. “The strategic passage has become central to the standoff, with the United States and Iran reportedly maintaining opposing restrictions and pressure tactics around the route,” added CBS News.
Energy markets remain sensitive to developments in the region because any prolonged disruption around Hormuz could affect oil supply chains and push up fuel prices globally.
US Secretary of the State Marco Rubio in New Delhi claimed that the next 48 hours would be crucial. US Vice President JD Vance also had returned to the White House last evening for meeting with Trump. The Raisina Hills had earlier reported that intense diplomatic discussions were taking place following Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir’s return from Tehran.
However, the core issue remains Iran’s nuclear programme. Tehran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium and concerns over its potential weapons capability continue to dominate negotiations.
“They’re never going to have a nuclear weapon, and we’ll have that over with soon,” Trump said, according to CBS News.
Despite a ceasefire holding for now, the report noted that Trump has grown frustrated with the pace of diplomacy and has been presented with military options should talks collapse.
Trump had earlier indicated that Tehran had until early next week to submit what he considers an acceptable proposal. For now, the path to a breakthrough remains uncertain.
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