The narrator
The US and Iran are close to a 60-day deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and talks on nuclear and other issues.
Updated on May 29, 202629 May 2026
Diplomatic efforts to keep the fire stop between the United States and Iran has continued on the back burner, with officials signaling progress toward a framework that could open the door to negotiations after weeks of conflict and confusion across the Gulf and beyond.
Despite the optimism, questions remain over the timing and extent of any deal. Iranian media reports say talks are ongoing and key terms have not been finalized, as both sides continue to focus on issues, including Iran’s nuclear program and security in the Gulf.
Here’s what we know:
In Iran
- US-Iran peace talks: Washington and Tehran they are close to agreement to extend the ceasefire for 60 days and start negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program, although US President Donald Trump has not signed the agreement, American sources told Al Jazeera. The proposed plan would continue unrestricted passage through the Strait of Hormuz, require Iran to remove sea mines within 30 days, and see the US lift its restrictions if trade resumes, reports suggest.
- Most foreign trains pass through Hormuz: The number of non-Iranian ships sailing through the Strait of Hormuz has increased in recent days, according to maritime data. Investigators say ships flying the flags of Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, South Korea and Norway have resumed transit through the waterway despite ongoing disputes and disruptions to the Gulf.
War Diplomacy:
- Nuclear proliferation remains a sticking point: Despite some positive developments, the gap between Iran’s uranium enrichment program appears to be tenuous.
- Iran World Cup visa uncertainty: Iran’s soccer team is still waiting for US visas for next month’s World Cup, according to Iran’s ambassador to Mexico, who said the team is not competing “equally”. The team has moved its training camp to Tijuana, Mexico, after abandoning plans to stay in Arizona. Iran are due to open their tournament against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15 before facing Belgium and Egypt later in the group.
- Pakistan’s Deputy PM to US: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is scheduled to travel to Washington on Friday to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The Iran war is expected to be a key focus of the meeting. Pakistan has been a key mediator between the US and Iran, helping to reconcile the fragile relationship since April 8.
In the Gulf
- Kuwait, UAE condemns missile incident: Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates have condemned what Kuwait called “Iranian aggression” after a ballistic missile launched into the country was intercepted. The two Gulf countries reaffirmed that Kuwait has the right to do whatever is necessary to protect its sovereignty and security. Iran has not made it clear that it is targeting Kuwait, although the IRGC has said it has hit the site of the US military’s latest offensive in southern Iran.
- Qatar emir, Trump discusses regional tensions: Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani held a phone call with Trump to discuss the latest developments in the war and diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions. The talks come as Qatar continues to host regional talks aimed at promoting an end to the conflict between the US and Iran and promoting stability.
In the US
- US expands sanctions on networks linked to Iran: Washington has imposed new sanctions on companies, individuals and vessels accused of funding Iran’s military operations and the IRGC. The measures target the oil and petrochemical industry, with the Treasury Department also sanctioning Hong Kong-based entities allegedly involved in the multibillion-dollar Iranian oil trade.
In Israel and Gaza
- Netanyahu orders expansion of Gaza administration: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he has ordered the army to occupy Gaza until the end 70 percent of the Palestinian territory. Israel is already estimated to control about 64 percent of the line, despite the October 2019 agreement between the US that required its troops to withdraw from the so-called “Yellow Line”.
- Concerns grow over Gaza’s management plan: Analysts have warned that the increase in Israeli military presence in Gaza could signal an increased plan to control the city and expel its Palestinian population.
In Lebanon
- Israeli attack on Beirut in southern Lebanon: Israeli forces carried out deadly attacks in southern Lebanon and launched their first attack near Beirut in weeks, killing at least 17 people, including women and children, according to Lebanese officials. The escalation comes ahead of talks organized by the US between Lebanese and Israeli military officials to prevent further clashes, even if they stop fighting Hezbollah.
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