explainer
The United States and Iran are close to signing a 60-day memorandum of understanding to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with talks scheduled over nuclear and other differences.
Published May 29, 2026
Diplomatic efforts to maintain a ceasefire between the United States and Iran continue behind the scenes, with officials hinting at progress toward a framework that could open the door to formal negotiations after weeks of conflict and turmoil in the Gulf region and beyond.
Despite the optimism, questions remain about the timing and scope of the agreement. According to Iranian media reports, talks are ongoing and key details have not yet been finalized, but the two sides continue to address sensitive issues such as Iran’s nuclear program and Gulf security.
Here’s what we know:
in iran
US-Iran ceasefire talks: Washington and the Iranian government are close to a deal to extend a fragile ceasefire for 60 days and start talks on Iran’s nuclear program, but US President Donald Trump has not yet signed the deal, US sources told Al Jazeera. According to the report, the proposed framework would maintain unrestricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, require Iran to clear mines within 30 days, and require the U.S. to lift the naval blockade once commercial traffic resumes. Increase in foreign vessels passing through Hormuz: According to maritime data, the number of non-Iranian vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz has increased in recent days. Analysts say ships flying the flags of Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, South Korea and Norway have resumed navigation in the strategic waterway, despite continued tensions and disruptions in Gulf shipping.
War diplomacy:
Nuclear enrichment remains a deadlock: Despite signs of progress, disagreements over Iran’s uranium enrichment program appear to remain deep. Iran World Cup Visa Uncertainty: Iran’s soccer team is still waiting for U.S. visas for next month’s World Cup, Iran’s ambassador to Mexico said, saying the team is not competing on “equal terms.” The team abandoned plans to be based in Arizona and moved training camp to Tijuana, Mexico. Iran will play New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, before facing Belgium and Egypt in the second half of the group stage. Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister visits US: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is scheduled to visit Washington on Friday to meet with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The war against Iran is expected to be the focus of the conference. Pakistan is a key intermediary between the US and Iran and has helped piece together a fragile ceasefire since April 8.
on the bay
Kuwait, United Arab Emirates condemn missile incident: Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates condemned what Kuwait called an “Iranian invasion” after a ballistic missile fired at the country was intercepted. The two Gulf states reaffirmed Kuwait’s right to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty and security. Iran has not explicitly targeted Kuwait, but the Revolutionary Guards said it recently attacked bases used by U.S. forces to launch attacks in southern Iran. Emir of Qatar and Trump discuss regional tensions: Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani spoke by phone with President Trump to discuss the latest developments in the war and ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions. The talks came as Qatar continues to host regional talks aimed at strengthening the fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran and promoting broader stability.
in the US
US extends sanctions on Iran-linked networks: The US government has imposed new sanctions on companies, individuals and vessels suspected of helping finance Iran’s military and Revolutionary Guards. The measures targeted oil and petrochemical transportation networks, and the Treasury Department also sanctioned a Hong Kong-based company allegedly involved in a multibillion-dollar Iranian oil marketing operation.
in Israel and Gaza
Netanyahu orders more control of Gaza: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he has directed the military to further occupy Gaza, which represents up to 70 percent of the Palestinian territory. Israel is estimated to already control about 64 percent of the area, despite a US-brokered ceasefire in October that forced it to withdraw to the so-called “Yellow Line.” Concerns grow over plots to take control of Gaza: Analysts have warned that Israel’s expanding military presence in Gaza could signal broader plans to take full control of the enclave and displace the Palestinian population.
in lebanon
Israeli forces attack Beirut region in southern Lebanon: Israeli forces have carried out deadly attacks across southern Lebanon, launching their first raid near Beirut in weeks, killing at least 17 people, including women and children, according to Lebanese authorities. This escalation preceded a US-brokered plan between Lebanese and Israeli military officials aimed at preventing further conflict despite a ceasefire with Hezbollah.
