Photo: KENT NISHIMURA / AFP / Getty Images
Vice President J.D. Vance says that the United States is "very close" to reaching an agreement with Iran, although several issues remain unresolved. The discussions, which have been ongoing, aim to extend the ceasefire by 60 days, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and initiate new talks regarding Iran's nuclear program. The proposed agreement requires approval from both President Donald Trump and Iranian leaders. Vance told reporters Thursday that negotiators are still "going back and forth" over Iran's nuclear capabilities, particularly regarding highly enriched stockpiles and enrichment levels.
The talks, mediated by Pakistan, follow a series of conflicts that began on February 28, 2026, when Israel and the United States launched strikes against Iran, targeting its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Iran responded with counter-strikes and closed the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global trade route. The discussions aim to resolve these issues and establish a long-term peace agreement. However, there are disagreements over Iran's right to enrich uranium and the lifting of sanctions.
President Trump has expressed that Iran must not develop nuclear weapons, while Iran insists its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes. The U.S. demands that Iran cease all nuclear enrichment activities, which Iran has rejected. Despite these challenges, both sides appear to be negotiating in good faith, according to Spectrum News.
The outcome of the negotiations remains uncertain, as President Trump has not yet endorsed the emerging memorandum of understanding. Talks are ongoing, with hopes of reaching a resolution that addresses the key issues of nuclear enrichment, missile programs, and regional stability.