US and Iran agree 60-day ceasefire deal framework, pending Trump approval

U.S. and Iranian negotiators have agreed on a framework for a 60-day ceasefire extension, but the deal still requires President Donald Trump's approval, U.S. sources told AFP on Thursday.

The agreement takes the form of a memorandum of understanding that would also launch negotiations on Iran's nuclear programme. Neither Trump nor Iran immediately confirmed the agreement.

What does the US-Iran ceasefire deal framework include?

The memorandum of understanding covers three main areas: Strait of Hormuz shipping, a U.S. naval blockade, and Iran's nuclear programme.

Under the terms, shipping through the strait would be unrestricted, with no tolls or harassment, and Iran would be required to remove all mines within 30 days.

In return, the U.S. would lift its naval blockade on Iranian ports, proportionally tied to the restoration of commercial shipping.

What does the deal say about Iran's nuclear programme?

The memorandum includes an Iranian commitment not to pursue a nuclear weapon, according to Axios, which first reported the agreement.

Among the first issues to be addressed under the deal is how to dispose of Iran's stockpiles of enriched uranium. Trump has repeatedly insisted that Iran cannot possess a nuclear weapon under any agreement to end the war.

What has Trump said about the state of negotiations?

On Wednesday, Trump said he was "not satisfied" with Iran's offers and warned he could "finish the job" militarily. The president has not yet confirmed or rejected the framework agreed by negotiators.

The deal was reached on the same day that Washington and Tehran accused each other of violating the existing ceasefire following an exchange of fire.

What is the status of the current ceasefire between the US and Iran?

A fragile ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran has been in place since April 7, following the war that began on February 28 with U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran.

Both sides have repeatedly accused each other of violating the truce throughout its duration. Thursday's exchange of fire was described as the most serious clash since the ceasefire began.