Washington, April 14: US Vice President J.D. Vance stated that there has been “significant progress” in talks with Iran, but no agreement has been reached. The United States remains 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 substantial progress,” adding that it was “the first time Iranian and American governments met at such a high level.”
According to Vance, the main sticking point is the US insistence that Iran “can never possess nuclear weapons,” which forms the basis of all negotiation conditions. He highlighted 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 emphasized, “It’s one thing for Iran to say it will never develop nuclear weapons… but verification is essential.” 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 stated, “The ball is now in their court,” suggesting that further talks will depend on Tehran’s willingness to accept US conditions. Vance also linked the progress of negotiations to regional issues, including the complete opening of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global energy supplies.
He asserted, “We need to see the strait fully open,” while accusing Iran of “changing the goals” during negotiations. He noted that there has been “some increase” in ship movements, but “full openness has not yet occurred.” He warned that if complete access is not restored, it could “fundamentally change the direction of negotiations.”
Regarding military actions, Vance confirmed that the US naval campaign targets not only Iranian-flagged vessels but also ships associated with Iranian ports. He stated, “Any ship heading to or coming from Iranian ports… we will have information on,” referencing US intelligence capabilities.
He accused Iran of engaging in “economic terrorism against the whole 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 for that to happen, Iran must “not pursue nuclear weapons and terrorism.”
He also acknowledged that Iranian negotiators may need to seek approval from high-ranking officials in Tehran before reaching any agreement. He said, “They will have to go back and get approval for our set conditions.”
Vance reinforced America’s position in the talks by referencing “military advantage” and “additional economic pressure through blockades.” He concluded, “We have many cards to play. We have the advantage.”
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