Rubio says Iran talks moving, but key demands remain

A final draft of a possible agreement between the United States and Iran could be announced within hours, Al Arabiya reported on Friday, citing sources aware of the matter, even as Washington kept up pressure on Tehran over its nuclear stockpile and the Strait of Hormuz blockade.

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According to the report, the proposed agreement includes an immediate, comprehensive and unconditional ceasefire across land, sea and air. It also commits both sides to stop targeting military, civilian and economic infrastructure, end military operations and halt media hostilities.

The draft reportedly underlines respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs. It is also expected to guarantee freedom of navigation in the Arabian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman.

The agreement is also likely to create a joint mechanism to monitor implementation and resolve disputes. Negotiations on outstanding issues would begin within seven days of the deal taking effect, while the US would gradually lift sanctions in exchange for Iran's compliance, Al Arabiya reported.

The possible breakthrough comes after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said talks to halt the conflict with Iran had shown “some slight progress”.

Speaking at a NATO foreign ministers’ meeting in Helsingborg, Sweden, Rubio said, “There's been some slight progress. I don't think we're there yet.” want to exaggerate it. There’s been a little bit of movement, and that’s good.”