US Agrees to Waive Iran Oil Sanctions During Talks, State Media Says

Why It Matters

A sanction waiver could unlock Iranian oil exports, easing global oil prices and reshaping geopolitical dynamics, while also testing the effectiveness of back‑channel diplomacy in a volatile region.

Key Takeaways

• US reportedly agrees to waive Iran oil sanctions during talks.
• Only 25% of frozen Iranian funds released on phased schedule.
• Pakistan mediates negotiations, addressing nuclear and Strait of Hormuz deadlocks.
• Iran's navy imposes new shipping regime in Strait of Hormuz.
• No official confirmation yet; reports remain unverified at present.

Summary

The United States is reported to have agreed, in the latest round of diplomatic talks, to suspend oil sanctions on Iran while negotiations continue. The claim comes from Iranian state media and is echoed by Reuters, which cites senior Iranian sources indicating a limited thaw in a relationship that has been strained by years of sanctions and regional tension.

Key details include Washington’s willingness to unfreeze only 25% of Iran’s frozen assets on a phased timetable, and a broader indication of flexibility on nuclear issues and the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Pakistani mediators are actively shuttling proposals and amendments between the two sides, attempting to bridge gaps on the nuclear file and maritime security.

Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman, Ismail Bagi, confirmed that Tehran has received U.S. amendment proposals via the Pakistani channel and has responded with its own positions. Meanwhile, the IRGC navy has instituted a new mechanism governing vessel passage through the Strait of Hormuz, with more than 30 ships reported to have passed under the new regime in recent days, though traffic appears to be slowing.

If the sanction waiver materializes, it could ease oil market pressures and signal a de‑escalation of hostilities, but the lack of an official announcement leaves the outcome uncertain. The negotiations’ progress will be closely watched by investors, regional actors, and policymakers for its potential to reshape U.S.–Iran relations and regional stability.

Original Description

Iranian state media says the United States has agreed to waive sanctions on Iranian oil exports during ongoing negotiations with Tehran, in what could signal a breakthrough in stalled talks over the war and the Strait of Hormuz crisis. Reuters, citing a senior Iranian source, reports Washington has also shown flexibility on limits to Iran's nuclear programme and agreed to unfreeze 25 percent of Iranian funds in phases. The reports remain unconfirmed by US or Iranian officials, but they emerge as Pakistan continues mediation efforts between the two sides. The developments come despite escalating rhetoric from both Washington and Tehran, with tensions still high over Iran's nuclear activities and restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, Iran's IRGC continues to enforce a new shipping regime in the Strait of Hormuz, requiring vessels to receive email permits for safe passage. Iranian media, including Tasnim News Agency, says discussions are continuing through Pakistani mediators as negotiators try to bridge gaps in the talks.

Al Jazeera's Almigdad Alruhaid reports from Tehran.

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