EXPLAINERUS and Iran near a 60-day MoU aimed at reopening the Hormuz strait with talks slated on nuclear and other differences. Published On 29 May 202629 May 2026Diplomatic efforts to preserve the ceasefire between the United States and Iran have continued behind the scenes, with officials signalling progress towards a framework that could open the door to formal negotiations after weeks of conflict and disruption across the Gulf and beyond.Despite the optimism, questions remain over the timing and scope of any agreement. Iranian media reports suggested discussions are continuing and that key details have yet to be finalised, while both sides continue to navigate sensitive issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme and security in the Gulf.Here is what we know:In Iran
US-Iran ceasefire talks: Washington and Tehran are close to a deal to extend their fragile ceasefire by 60 days and launch talks on Iran’s nuclear programme, though US President Donald Trump is yet to sign off on the agreement, American sources have told Al Jazeera. The proposed framework would keep shipping through the Strait of Hormuz unrestricted, require Iran to remove sea mines within 30 days, and see the US lift its naval blockade if commercial traffic resumes, reports suggest.
More foreign vessels transit Hormuz: The number of non-Iranian-linked vessels moving through the Strait of Hormuz has increased in recent days, according to maritime data. Analysts say ships flying the flags of Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, South Korea and Norway have resumed transiting the strategic waterway despite ongoing tensions and disruptions to Gulf shipping.
War diplomacy:
Nuclear enrichment remains a sticking point: Despite signs of progress, differences over Iran’s uranium enrichment programme appear to remain entrenched.
Iran World Cup visa uncertainty: Iran’s football team are still waiting for US visas ahead of next month’s World Cup, according to Iran’s ambassador to Mexico, who said the team are not competing on “equal terms”. The squad have relocated their training camp to Tijuana, Mexico, after abando …
