### 📈 US-Iran Near Preliminary Deal to Reopen Strait of Hormuz

A potential breakthrough in the regional conflict could see the reopening of critical maritime routes, significantly impacting global trade and Sri Lanka's energy and logistics costs. • The Framework: A proposed 14-point memorandum establishes a framework for broader nuclear and security negotiations. A 30-day negotiation period would follow to finalize details on sanctions relief and maritime access. • Key Provisions: Iran to implement a temporary moratorium on uranium enrichment. US to ease sanctions and release billions in frozen Iranian funds. Gradual lifting of the US naval blockade and Iranian shipping restrictions. • Impact on Shipping: The deal aims to restore transit through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for global oil and gas. This is expected to stabilize global oil prices and reduce freight surcharges for Sri Lankan imports and exports. • Current Status: Based on provisional reports, the White House expects an Iranian response within 48 hours. Both sides maintain the option to resume military action if talks collapse. _Source: Axios/Reuters (Provisional)_