Progress in US-Iran Talks Amid Nuclear Concerns
US President Discusses Potential Deal with Iran
On Wednesday, President Donald Trump announced that discussions with Iran have been "very productive" over the last day, suggesting that a deal could be on the horizon. During a press briefing at the White House, he indicated that negotiations are advancing, but emphasized that Iran must halt its nuclear ambitions and allow free passage through the crucial Strait of Hormuz. Trump cautioned that military action could resume if the talks do not yield results. He stated, "It's quite straightforward. Iran must not possess a nuclear weapon because, despite their toughness, we want to ensure their survival and the safety of everyone involved," while addressing reporters.
In a separate interview with PBS, Trump expressed optimism about finalizing an agreement before his upcoming trip to China next week. He remarked, "There’s a strong possibility this could conclude positively, but if it doesn’t, we may have to resort to military action again." However, Iranian officials have taken a more reserved stance. Esmaeil Baghaei, a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, characterized reports of a near deal as overstated, noting that Tehran has yet to formally respond to the latest US proposal. He confirmed ongoing diplomatic communications facilitated by Pakistan, which is acting as a mediator.
According to sources, a one-page memorandum outlining a potential resolution to the conflict is nearing agreement. This document is expected to facilitate the restoration of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, ease US sanctions on Iran, and impose limits on Iran's nuclear program. However, it remains uncertain how this proposal differs from a previous 14-point plan presented by Iran. Iranian lawmakers have voiced skepticism, with Ebrahim Rezaei labeling the proposal as more of an American wish list than a feasible agreement, asserting that the US could achieve its goals through direct negotiations rather than conflict.
Meanwhile, the US continues to exert pressure in the region. The military reported that it had disabled an Iranian-flagged oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman after it allegedly ignored warnings and breached a blockade on vessels traveling to and from Iranian ports. US State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott reiterated that Washington would not accept a situation where a country could dictate access to an international waterway, while also emphasizing that the president still favors a diplomatic resolution.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated he would discuss the negotiations with Trump, asserting that both leaders concur that Iran should not retain enriched uranium. Tehran has consistently rejected this demand, maintaining that its nuclear program is not intended for weaponization. Earlier, Trump had announced a temporary halt to a US naval operation aimed at escorting commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, citing "significant progress" in negotiations following requests from Pakistan and other nations. Despite these developments, critical differences remain, particularly concerning Iran's nuclear activities and control over the waterway, which previously facilitated the passage of approximately one-fifth of the world's oil and gas supply before the conflict.