Iran Says Progress Made in US Talks but Final Agreement Still Not Near, Officials Confirm

Iran has stated that discussions with the United States have advanced on several issues, but stressed that a final agreement remains far from completion, despite growing political speculation about an imminent deal.

Tehran Rejects Claims of Imminent Agreement

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baqai said that while negotiators have made progress on multiple areas under discussion, it would be incorrect to assume that a formal agreement is close to being signed.

He clarified that a significant portion of issues has been addressed, but key disagreements still remain unresolved.

US Signals Possible Breakthrough, But With Caution

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that an understanding could potentially be reached soon, although he warned that diplomatic communication with Iran often takes time and should not be interpreted as immediate progress.

US officials have also noted that responses from Tehran are still pending on several critical points.

Trump Suggests Possible Deal, Then Urges Patience

President Donald Trump previously suggested that both sides were moving closer to an agreement. However, he later instructed negotiators not to rush into any final settlement, emphasizing that the outcome must be “strong and beneficial” or no deal at all.

Key Framework of Proposed Understanding

Reports indicate that the draft memorandum under discussion may include:

• A 60-day extension of a ceasefire arrangement
• Reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for maritime trade
• Continued negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme

However, officials confirm this is only an interim framework and not a final peace agreement.

Internal Delays and Communication Challenges

Some intelligence assessments suggest that internal political and communication difficulties within Iran may be slowing down negotiations, making coordination between decision-makers and diplomats more complex.

This has reportedly contributed to delays in final responses to US proposals.

Nuclear Issue Remains Central

One of the major unresolved issues remains Iran’s nuclear enrichment programme. Western intelligence estimates suggest Iran possesses large quantities of highly enriched uranium, which remains a key concern for Washington.

US leadership has insisted that any agreement must include strict limitations on Iran’s nuclear capabilities, including possible transfer or destruction of enriched material.

Economic and Global Market Reaction

Financial markets responded positively to speculation of a possible agreement, with oil prices dropping and Asian stock markets showing gains amid expectations of reduced geopolitical tension.

Political Division Within the United States

The potential deal has created divisions within the US political landscape. Some lawmakers argue that any agreement with Iran could be too lenient, while others support continued diplomatic engagement.

Critics have raised concerns that easing restrictions on Iran could weaken regional security strategies.

Iran Reaffirms Peaceful Nuclear Position

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has reiterated that Iran’s nuclear programme is strictly peaceful in nature, denying any intention to develop nuclear weapons.

He stated that Iran is prepared to provide assurances to the international community regarding its nuclear activities.

Ongoing Uncertainty

Despite diplomatic activity, both sides acknowledge that major obstacles remain, and any final agreement would likely require further negotiations over sanctions relief, frozen assets, and regional security concerns.

For now, officials from both Washington and Tehran agree on one point: progress has been made, but a final deal is still not within immediate reach.