The United States says it is still working toward an agreement with Iran, but officials insist Washington will not accept a weak deal. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said diplomacy remains the top priority, although other options are still being considered if talks fail.
Speaking in New Delhi, Rubio said there is already a “solid” proposal on the table that could help reopen the Strait of Hormuz and start serious negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme. He added that the US wants to give diplomacy every opportunity before moving toward tougher measures.
US President Donald Trump also signaled caution, saying negotiators should take their time to ensure any agreement is done properly. He confirmed that restrictions on Iranian shipping in the Strait of Hormuz would remain until a final deal is officially signed.
Reports suggest Washington and Tehran have made progress after months of tensions and conflict. Optimism surrounding a possible agreement with Iran also pushed oil prices lower on Monday as markets reacted positively to the diplomatic signals.
However, several difficult issues remain unresolved. The two sides are still divided over Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile, sanctions relief, and the release of frozen Iranian funds held abroad. Iranian media linked to the Revolutionary Guards claimed the United States continues to block some of Tehran’s key demands.
A senior US official said Iran had agreed “in principle” to reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for easing the naval blockade. The same official said Iran was also prepared to discuss its highly enriched uranium stockpile as part of a future framework.
Iran has repeatedly denied accusations from the United States and Israel that it is trying to build nuclear weapons. Tehran says its nuclear programme is meant for peaceful civilian purposes.
The possible agreement with Iran comes after months of regional violence involving Iran, Israel and Hezbollah. Although a ceasefire has largely held since April, tensions across the Middle East remain high.
Rubio also commented on Pakistan’s role in the diplomacy process. He said India has never objected to Pakistan acting as a mediator in discussions related to Iran. According to Rubio, India’s concerns with Pakistan are separate from the Iran issue.
Trump defended his administration’s approach and dismissed criticism from political opponents. He said any agreement with Iran would protect US interests and help stabilize the region.
