WASHINGTON: US Vice President JD Vance has said that the next step in advancing peace negotiations now depends on Iran, following what he described as “significant progress” during the Islamabad Talks.
In an interview with Fox News, Vance stated that Washington has already laid out its proposals, stressing that it is now up to Tehran to respond. “We’ve put a lot on the table the ball is in Iran’s court,” he said.
Vance reiterated that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons remains a non-negotiable priority for the United States. He underscored that American officials have clearly communicated their expectations, including the removal of nuclear material from Iran, as part of any potential agreement.
Highlighting firm US positions, the vice president said Washington’s “red lines” have been explicitly defined throughout the discussions. He also accused Iran of engaging in what he called “economic terrorism” affecting global stability.
Despite the tensions, Vance expressed cautious optimism about progress, particularly regarding the reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. He noted that ensuring uninterrupted access through the waterway is a key condition tied to the ongoing ceasefire.
According to Vance, the fragile 14-day truce was partly based on Iran’s commitment to restore full operations in the strait. However, he claimed Tehran attempted to shift its stance during negotiations.
Reaffirming Washington’s core objective, Vance concluded that all US conditions for a deal ultimately stem from one principle: Iran must never be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.
