TEHRAN/WASHINGTON — Iran has said no agreement with the United States is “imminent” despite reports of progress in ongoing negotiations, as diplomatic efforts continue amid regional tensions and international pressure over Tehran’s nuclear activities.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said discussions with Washington have produced progress on several issues, but major differences remain unresolved and no final agreement is expected in the immediate future.
The comments came after U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed cautious optimism about the negotiations earlier Monday, saying a possible agreement could potentially be finalized “today,” while warning that Washington would pursue “another way” if diplomacy fails.
The latest round of indirect negotiations — mediated primarily through Oman and regional intermediaries — has focused on de-escalating tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear program, sanctions relief and security concerns linked to the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian officials, however, have repeatedly accused Washington of sending mixed signals during the talks. Tehran insists any future deal must include sanctions relief and guarantees protecting Iranian economic interests, while rejecting demands viewed as undermining national sovereignty.
According to reports, one of the key sticking points remains Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. The United States is seeking strict guarantees over its reduction or transfer, while Iran has resisted sending nuclear material abroad.
Discussions have also reportedly included maritime security and the future management of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route disrupted by months of regional confrontation.
Despite public optimism from some U.S. officials, analysts say both sides continue facing significant political and strategic obstacles that could delay or derail a final agreement.
Officials familiar with the negotiations say talks remain fluid, with multiple proposals still under discussion and no confirmed timeline for a breakthrough.
The negotiations come amid broader international concerns over regional stability, energy markets and the future of Iran’s nuclear program as diplomatic efforts intensify to avoid further escalation in the Middle East.