Washington, April 14: US Vice President JD Vance stated that significant progress had been made in talks with Iran, but no agreement was reached. The United States remained firm on its key demands, which include the removal of enriched uranium and verifiable limits on Iran’s nuclear program.
In an interview with Fox News, Vance noted that high-level discussions in Pakistan clarified both flexibility and America’s “red lines.” He remarked, “I wouldn’t say things went wrong. I think many things went right. We made considerable progress,” adding that this was “the first time Iranian and American governments met at such a high level.”
According to Vance, the main point of contention was the US insistence that Iran “can never possess nuclear weapons,” which forms the basis of all negotiation conditions. He mentioned two non-negotiable demands: the removal of enriched material (uranium) from Iran and a decisive commitment not to develop nuclear weapons, which must be ensured through verification mechanisms.
He stated, “For Iran to say it will never develop nuclear weapons is one thing… but verification is also necessary.” Vance indicated that Iranian negotiators “moved in our direction” but “did not move sufficiently,” leading both sides to decide to pause discussions and return to their respective countries.
He said, “The ball is now in their court,” suggesting that further talks would depend on Tehran’s willingness to accept American conditions. Vance linked the progress of negotiations to regional issues, including the complete opening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy supplies.
He emphasized, “We need to see the strait fully open,” accusing Iran of “changing the goalposts” during negotiations. He also noted that there has been “some increase” in ship movements, but “full openness has not yet occurred.” Vance warned that if complete access is not restored, it could “fundamentally change the direction of the talks.”
Regarding actions, Vance confirmed that the US naval campaign targets not only Iranian-flagged vessels but also ships linked to Iranian ports. He stated, “We will have information on any ship heading to or coming from Iranian ports,” citing US intelligence capabilities.
He accused Iran of engaging in “economic terrorism against the entire world” by threatening global shipping and stated, “If Iran does this, we will also operate on a principle that no Iranian ship will be able to leave.”
Despite the tensions, Vance maintained that the possibility of a comprehensive agreement still exists. He mentioned that President Donald Trump “would be pleased if Iran behaved like a normal country… and its people could achieve prosperity,” but this requires Iran to “not pursue nuclear weapons and terrorism.”
He also acknowledged that Iranian negotiators might need to secure approval from high officials in Tehran before any agreement. He stated, “They will need to go back and get approval for our stipulated conditions.”
Vance reinforced America’s position in the talks, referring to “military advantage” and “additional economic pressure through blockades.” He concluded, “We have many cards to play. We have the advantage.”
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