The United States has made “significant progress” in its negotiations with Iran, US Vice President JD Vance said on Monday, while emphasizing that the next move now depends on Tehran. His remarks come as mediators attempt to bring both sides back to the negotiating table following the US delegation’s withdrawal from last weekend’s summit in Islamabad.
In an interview with Fox News, Vance explained that the US team exited the talks because the Iranian delegation lacked the authority to finalize an agreement. He said the Iranian representatives needed to return to Tehran to seek approval from higher leadership, including the supreme leader.
Vance noted that the key question moving forward is whether Iran is willing to show flexibility and meet Washington’s core demands. He reiterated that any agreement must include the removal of enriched nuclear material from Iran and a firm commitment that the country will not pursue nuclear weapons.
“If Iran is prepared to meet these conditions, there is potential for a mutually beneficial agreement,” Vance said, adding that the US has clearly outlined its expectations and “red lines.”
He further stated that Washington would welcome Iran’s reintegration as a “normal” country—both economically and politically—but stressed that this would require Tehran to abandon its nuclear ambitions and cease support for activities the US labels as terrorism.
“There is an opportunity for a broad, comprehensive deal,” Vance added. “But ultimately, it is up to Iran to take the next step.”
The vice president also warned that progress on reopening the Strait of Hormuz would be a key factor in future negotiations. He indicated that the US holds strategic and economic leverage, citing increased pressure through restrictions on Iran’s oil exports via the vital shipping route.
Vance’s interview came as the mediating countries scrambled to get the US and Iran back to the negotiating table, with Pakistan proposing to host a second round of talks in the coming days, according to two officials from the South Asian country.
