U.S. official says Iran deal could be signed within days, but confidence remains below certainty

A senior official from the Trump administration told reporters on Friday that the United States and Iran could sign a memorandum of understanding in the "next few days" that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and outline steps to dismantle Iran's nuclear program. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the likelihood of a signature has risen from about 75% earlier in the day to roughly 80-85%, but emphasized it is not guaranteed.

The draft agreement, according to the official, includes provisions for long-term regional peace by ending Iran's funding of violence and establishes an inspection regime for the Islamic Republic. If Iran complies, the United States would provide significant economic relief, such as easing long-term sanctions and unfreezing assets, but only if the conditions are met.

Both sides have not yet decided on a location for the signing, and the official noted that while the text is currently acceptable to both parties, unforeseen issues could still arise. The comments came after statements from President Donald Trump and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressing optimism about a near-term settlement.

Sharif, whose government has acted as a mediator, said Pakistan is working closely with the United States and Iran to finalize next steps. Iran’s foreign minister also indicated that a memorandum of understanding is close to completion. The three officials have disputed public reports about the deal’s specific terms, with the White House rejecting claims that the publicly reported provisions reflect the written agreement.