Tehran | October 31, 2026
The United States and Iran are reportedly considering a preliminary diplomatic framework that could involve transferring Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpile to a third country, reopening the strategically important Strait of Hormuz within seven days and easing economic restrictions.
According to a report by Al Arabiya English, the proposed framework also identifies China as a potential guarantor of an eventual agreement and suggests holding direct negotiations between Washington and Tehran in Doha.
The proposals remain at the draft stage, with no confirmed agreement between the two countries.
Draft Framework Proposes Uranium Transfer
The preliminary framework reportedly offers two possible approaches to Iran’s nuclear stockpile: transferring highly enriched uranium to an agreed third country or reducing its enrichment level.
The proposal aims to address Washington’s concerns over Iran’s nuclear programme while establishing a diplomatic pathway to reduce tensions.
Under the reported framework, nuclear-related commitments would be linked to corresponding measures by the United States, including easing sanctions, blockades and economic restrictions.
An independent verification mechanism would reportedly assess compliance before each phase of implementation.
Strait of Hormuz Could Reopen Within Seven Days
One of the key proposals involves reopening the Strait of Hormuz to international maritime traffic within seven days of an initial understanding.
The waterway is a critical route for global oil and gas shipments. Disruptions to shipping through the strait have raised concerns over energy supplies, transportation costs and regional economic stability.
The proposed framework would link maritime security measures with diplomatic commitments from both sides.
However, the reopening timeline remains a proposal and has not been confirmed as an agreed commitment.
China May Act as Guarantor
The draft reportedly suggests that China could serve as a guarantor to help oversee implementation and ensure the long-term sustainability of an eventual agreement.
The proposed role would involve supporting compliance with the framework and helping address disputes between the United States and Iran.
The draft also reportedly includes a dispute-resolution mechanism involving mediators and guarantor countries.
Such arrangements would aim to prevent disagreements over implementation from triggering renewed military escalation.
Qatar and Turkey Continue Diplomatic Efforts
Diplomatic activity has intensified, with Qatar and Turkey reportedly playing roles in efforts to facilitate communication between Washington and Tehran.
According to Iran’s state news agency IRNA, a Qatari delegation arrived in Tehran for consultations aimed at restoring a ceasefire.
The delegation was reportedly led by a senior adviser to Qatar’s prime minister and foreign minister and was operating in coordination with Washington.
The visit also reportedly involved delivering a letter from US Vice President JD Vance to Iranian security official Mohsen Rezaei.
Separately, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a G20 ministerial gathering, where discussions included US-Iran negotiations and regional developments.
Nuclear Programme and Sanctions Remain Key Obstacles
Despite renewed diplomatic activity, Washington and Tehran remain divided over major issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions and the US blockade of Iranian ports.
US President Donald Trump has indicated that Washington is not in a hurry to end the conflict and has continued to raise the possibility of further military action.
Iran, meanwhile, has maintained that its conditions must be addressed as part of any agreement.
The reported draft framework represents a possible diplomatic pathway, but its success will depend on whether both sides accept the proposed nuclear, maritime and economic commitments.
What Happens Next?
The proposed agreement would require negotiations, verification arrangements and commitments from both countries before implementation.
The possible involvement of China, Qatar and Turkey highlights the role of international and regional actors in efforts to reduce tensions.
For now, the framework remains preliminary. Whether it can lead to a lasting ceasefire and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz will depend on the positions taken by Washington and Tehran in the coming negotiations.
