TEHRAN — Iran has called for concrete actions rather than political statements after U.S. officials suggested that a peace agreement between Washington and Tehran could be approaching, highlighting the deep mistrust that continues to complicate negotiations between the two sides.
Iranian officials said that while diplomatic discussions have progressed in recent weeks, Tehran remains focused on practical measures, including sanctions relief, the unfreezing of foreign assets, and a reduction of U.S. military pressure in the region. Iranian leaders argue that public declarations about peace are not enough without tangible commitments.
The comments came after senior U.S. officials indicated that a broader agreement aimed at reducing regional tensions and extending an existing ceasefire framework could be within reach. President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated that negotiations are moving toward a breakthrough, although both sides continue to disagree on several key issues.
Sources familiar with the talks say discussions have focused on reopening commercial shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, easing certain sanctions, and establishing a framework for future negotiations on more sensitive issues, including Iran’s nuclear activities and regional security arrangements.
Iran has maintained that any long-term agreement must include guarantees regarding sanctions relief and respect for Iranian sovereignty. Tehran has also demanded access to frozen financial assets and has called for an end to military pressure from the United States and its allies.
Despite growing diplomatic activity, major disagreements remain unresolved. Washington continues to push for restrictions on Iran’s nuclear program, while Iranian officials insist their nuclear activities are intended for peaceful purposes and reject demands that they consider excessive.
The broader regional conflict continues to influence negotiations. Fighting involving Iranian-backed groups and ongoing tensions involving Israel remain significant obstacles to a comprehensive settlement. Iranian officials have argued that any lasting agreement must address wider regional security concerns rather than focusing solely on bilateral U.S.-Iran relations.
At the same time, U.S. officials have warned that military options remain available if diplomatic efforts fail. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently stated that Washington is prepared to resume military action if negotiations collapse, underscoring the fragile nature of the current talks.
The negotiations are being closely watched by global markets because of the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route through which a significant portion of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supplies pass. Any disruption to the waterway could have major consequences for global energy prices and international trade.
While officials on both sides have expressed cautious optimism, Iranian leaders continue to stress that progress will be judged by actions rather than rhetoric. For now, hopes for a breakthrough remain tempered by longstanding distrust and unresolved disputes that have shaped relations between Tehran and Washington for decades.
