Despite the atmosphere of optimism surrounding the US-Iranian negotiations in recent days, several basic issues remain pending or unresolved, which raises questions about the chances of reaching a final agreement between the two sides.
Diplomatic, Iranian and American sources revealed, according to CNN, that there are discrepancies regarding a number of key items in the upcoming memorandum of understanding, despite talk of the possibility of signing it remotely.
The Strait of Hormuz issue is one of the most prominent points of disagreement, as Washington confirms that the waterway will be opened immediately after the signing of the agreement, while refusing to impose any transit fees or grant Iran sole powers to manage it. On the other hand, Tehran adheres to a fundamental role in managing navigation traffic within the strait, which the United States rejects.
As for the nuclear file, it still constitutes one of the main nodes. The US administration asserts that the agreement must ultimately lead to the dismantling of the Iranian nuclear program and the disposal of its stock of highly enriched uranium, while Tehran stresses its right to continue enriching uranium and refuses to transfer its stock of highly enriched uranium abroad.
The issue of frozen Iranian funds also stands out as one of the points of difference, as Washington confirms that the release of these funds and the easing of sanctions will remain linked to the extent of Iran’s compliance with the terms of the agreement. On the other hand, Tehran considers recovering its frozen funds an essential part of any prospective understanding.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ismail Baghaei indicated that the release of frozen Iranian assets represents an integral part of the agreement. He also spoke about imposing fees on some services related to navigation traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, in addition to his call for ending the foreign military presence in the region.
As for Lebanon, it remains one of the most sensitive issues within the anticipated understandings. Iran confirms that the Lebanese arena is included in the memorandum of understanding, while Israel insists on separating the Lebanese track from the Iranian-American negotiations.
In this context, Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz reaffirmed that Israel will not withdraw from the areas it controls in Lebanon, stressing the continued freedom of military action according to what Tel Aviv deems necessary.
The data indicate that the success of any future understanding will not only depend on the agreement between Washington and Tehran, but also on the ability of both parties to ensure the commitment of their allies and translate the understandings into practical steps on the ground.
