WASHINGTON — Vice President JD Vance announced Thursday that the 60-day countdown established in a memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran is now underway, following approval by President Donald Trump and Iranian leaders.
Speaking to reporters during a White House briefing, Vance confirmed the timeline had begun. “I would say the 60-day period officially started today,” he said.
Reporters also pressed Vance on what would happen to the Strait of Hormuz once the 60-day window closes. The waterway is a critical route for global oil and gas shipments, and Iran effectively shut it down during the war. Vance reiterated the U.S. position that the passage should remain open and free of any tolls.
“The final negotiations can set the terms of what comes afterwards,” Vance said when asked about the future governance of the strait.
The temporary agreement between the two nations pushed the most contentious and difficult issues into a future round of talks, offering no assurance that those disputes will ultimately be settled. Analysts who follow the region are largely doubtful that both sides will be able to hammer out a comprehensive final agreement before the 60-day deadline expires.
