The framework agreement between the United States and Iran is facing its first major test after the cessation of military hostilities, with escalating disputes on key issues vital for any lasting settlement. These include mechanisms for inspecting Iran's nuclear program, the handling of Iran's frozen assets, the future of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, and continued discrepancies over Israel's role in Lebanon.
While US President Donald Trump announced that Tehran agreed to indefinite nuclear inspections, Iran quickly denied this, asserting that its nuclear program was not part of the initial negotiations and that it has not consented to the return of International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors to its facilities.
Another disagreement emerged over Iran's frozen assets, with Trump stating that their release would be restricted to purchasing food and medicine from the US, while Tehran insisted that it alone would decide on how to spend the funds.
Despite these differences, Washington and Tehran are proceeding with implementing some parts of the agreement. The US suspended some sanctions for 60 days, while Iran allowed the resumption of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, contributing to a decline in oil prices and a gradual recovery in shipping activities.
Parallel to this, other political indicators highlight the ongoing fragility of the understanding, with the US Senate voting in favor of a bill demanding an end to the war, symbolically challenging President Trump. A poll showed that a growing number of Americans believe their country is in a weaker position post-crisis compared to before its onset.
Additionally, the US eased travel restrictions on the Iranian team participating in the 2026 World Cup, a move seen as an effort to de-escalate tensions, despite ongoing disagreements over key issues that will determine the fate of the agreement during the 60-day negotiation period.