Even as President Trump publicly signaled that a deal with Iran was close, reports indicated he privately instructed negotiators not to rush finalization of the agreement. The dual messaging reflects tension between political pressure to announce a breakthrough and technical work still required on sanctions and enforcement.
Al Jazeera reported that aides received guidance to avoid premature concessions that could draw criticism from congressional hawks. Teams in Oman and Geneva continued exchanging draft language on Hormuz security guarantees.
Observers said delays could still occur if either side reopens disputes over nuclear monitoring or regional proxy forces. Markets and Gulf capitals remain sensitive to any shift in tone from Washington or Tehran.
Trump’s public optimism contrasted with instructions emphasizing careful pacing behind closed doors. Diplomats familiar with the process said unresolved verification and sequencing questions make a hurried signature risky even when headline progress appears within reach.
Al Jazeera reported that Trump privately told negotiators not to rush despite his public statements suggesting an agreement was near. The instruction highlights remaining work on sanctions sequencing and enforcement language before any U.S.-Iran memorandum could be signed.
Negotiators continued refining Hormuz security language even as Trump balanced public optimism about a near-final deal with private instructions to avoid hasty concessions.
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Sources:
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2026/5/24/live-trump-says-new-iran-deal-largely-negotiated-with-talks-very-soon