US, Iran reach agreement on three key files in indirect talks

WASHINGTON, United States — WASHINGTON — The United States and Iran have reached an agreement on three key files in indirect talks mediated by Qatar, according to a US-based outlet. The understandings cover a mechanism for releasing frozen Iranian assets, arrangements to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to international maritime traffic, and a framework for managing the remainder of nuclear negotiations. Under the deal, a clear and guaranteed mechanism will be established to channel frozen assets into the Iranian economy, the report said. Security arrangements in the Strait of Hormuz are to be applied during a 60-day ceasefire period, while inspection, monitoring and timeline mechanisms will be set for the remaining nuclear talks. US President Donald Trump said the negotiations had been relayed to and approved by Iran's senior leadership, and announced he had called off planned airstrikes against Iran scheduled for the evening. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the operations were suspended because of the positive course of the talks. Technical teams are expected to begin drafting the final text of the interim agreement in the coming period. The understandings are viewed as a diplomatic step toward lowering military tensions in the region and preventing a fresh shock to energy markets.