• President Trump announces Iran has agreed to long-term nuclear inspections as a condition for continued negotiations.
  • The U.S. will keep the Strait of Hormuz open and avoid a naval blockade for now, though military forces remain in place.
  • Released funds will be held in U.S.-controlled escrow and used for food and medical imports from the United States.

Inspection Breakthrough

President Trump said Wednesday that Iran has agreed to long-term nuclear inspections, calling it a key step in ongoing negotiations. The announcement, made during a press briefing, signals a potential shift in the stalled talks over Tehran's nuclear program. "Iran has committed to long-term inspections, and that's a big deal," Trump said. The specifics of the inspection regime were not immediately detailed, but the move could pave the way for broader discussions on sanctions relief.

Strait of Hormuz and Naval Posture

Trump also stated that the U.S. will keep the Strait of Hormuz open and will not impose a naval blockade for now, though he noted that American forces remain in the region. "We're not blockading them, but we're there," he said, adding that the U.S. is prepared to act if necessary. The assurance comes amid heightened tensions in the Persian Gulf, where shipping routes are critical for global oil supplies.

Escrow Arrangement for Humanitarian Imports

The president outlined that any funds released to Iran would be held in a U.S.-controlled escrow account and used exclusively for purchasing food and medical imports from the United States. "The money will be controlled by us, and it's going to be spent on American products," Trump said. The arrangement aims to address humanitarian needs while ensuring funds are not diverted to military or nuclear activities. Officials familiar with the matter confirmed that the escrow mechanism is designed to provide transparency and maintain U.S. oversight.

Market and Diplomatic Reactions

Oil prices edged lower on the news, with Brent crude falling 1.2% to $72.50 a barrel, as traders weighed the potential for reduced geopolitical risk. Analysts noted that the agreement, if verifiable, could ease supply concerns but cautioned that enforcement remains a key question. The IAEA has not yet commented on the reported inspections. Reached for comment, a State Department spokesperson declined to elaborate, saying details are still being finalized.

Correction: An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated that the escrow funds would be used for imports from any country. The funds are designated for U.S. imports only.