New York: US Vice President JD Vance confirmed that both parties are close to reaching a deal, adding that the U.S. is in a position to substantially set back Iran’s nuclear programme.
He said the U.S. is close to a final agreement that could reopen the Strait of Hormuz and described current developments as strategically significant for Washington.
Speaking to reporters at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, Vance said the U.S. has already weakened Iran’s conventional military capabilities and could further limit its nuclear programme over the long term.
He added that while the deal is not yet final, negotiations are progressing and both sides are nearing an agreement.
Vance said, "If you look at what we've already accomplished here, assuming that we're able to get to a final agreement here, we're reopening the Strait of Hormuz, we've already decimated their conventional military, and we're in a position where we could substantially set back their nuclear program, not just during the term of this President, but over the long term. That's a very, very good thing for the American people,"
"So, we're not there yet, but we're very close. We're going to keep on working at it," the Vice President said.
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Ceasefire efforts
American and Iranian negotiators have agreed on the framework of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at extending the ongoing ceasefire for 60 days, according to US officials. However, the proposed deal is still awaiting final approval from US President Donald Trump.
The agreement, first reported by Axios, is expected to ease tensions in West Asia after months of conflict that disrupted global energy markets and shipping routes following Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz earlier this year.
As part of the draft MoU, Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz to unrestricted commercial shipping, ensuring free passage without tolls or interference. Tehran would also be required to remove all naval mines deployed in the strategic waterway within 30 days.
In exchange, the United States would gradually ease its naval blockade on Iranian ports and grant sanctions waivers permitting Iran to resume unrestricted oil exports.
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The proposed understanding also includes a formal commitment from Iran that it will not pursue nuclear weapons. Discussions on Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium are expected to be among the key issues during the 60-day negotiation period.
Ends.
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