Iran Rejects Claims of Imminent Peace Deal with the US Amid Ongoing Tensions
Iran's Stance on US Negotiations
On Monday, Iranian officials refuted claims suggesting that a peace agreement with the United States is on the verge of being finalized. They attributed the lack of progress to inconsistent positions from the US and pressure from Israel. During a weekly briefing at the Iranian foreign ministry, spokesperson Esmail Baghaei acknowledged that while advancements had been made on several topics, significant disagreements still exist. He stated, "While we have reached conclusions on many issues, it would be inaccurate to claim that an agreement is imminent."
Baghaei emphasized that any comprehensive agreement must also consider the situation in Lebanon, insisting that a ceasefire should be part of any understanding related to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the easing of restrictions on Iranian ports. He dismissed allegations that Iran intended to impose tolls on commercial ships traversing the strait, clarifying that any proposed fees would pertain to navigation and environmental protection services. "If navigation services are provided, along with necessary environmental safeguards, fees will be collected. However, we do not impose tolls, and we should be precise in our terminology," he explained.
Additionally, Iranian and Omani officials engaged in discussions on Monday regarding the future management of this crucial waterway.
In a related development, the US military's Central Command reported that American forces conducted strikes in southern Iran, which they characterized as self-defense actions. These strikes reportedly targeted missile launch sites and Iranian vessels suspected of attempting to deploy mines. Centcom affirmed that US forces would maintain a defensive posture while exercising restraint during the ceasefire.
Despite Iran's cautious approach, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism about the potential for a deal. Speaking to reporters in New Delhi, he noted that discussions were ongoing regarding the reopening of the strait and what he termed a "significant, time-limited negotiation on nuclear issues." Rubio stated, "We either secure a favorable deal or address the situation through alternative means, and we prefer a positive outcome."
US President Donald Trump also commented on the negotiations, asserting that any agreement with Iran would either be "substantial and meaningful, or there will be no deal at all." In a post on Truth Social, he called on nations such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan, and Turkey to join the Abraham Accords and normalize relations with Israel. He added that if Iran were to reach an agreement with the US, it would be an honor to include them in this unprecedented global coalition.