Iran denies deal with US is imminent despite some progress | US-Israel war on Iran
US politics | The Guardian — 2026-05-25 07:47:00 — www.theguardian.com
Iran Dismisses Imminent Deal with U.S., Citing Confusion and Interference
In a significant development regarding U.S.-Iran relations, Iran has poured cold water on suggestions that a deal with the United States is imminent. Esmail Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran’s negotiating team, pointed to confusion in U.S. positions and Israeli interference as key factors complicating the path to a complete agreement. Speaking at a weekly foreign ministry press briefing, Baghaei stated, “It is correct to say that we have reached a conclusion on a large portion of the issues under discussion. But to say that this means the signing of an agreement is imminent – no one can make such a claim.”
U.S. Secretary of State’s Optimism
Despite Iran’s cautious stance, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed hope that a deal could be reached soon. He acknowledged the complexity of the Iranian political system, stating, “Either we will have a good deal or we will deal with this issue in another way, and we prefer to have a good deal.” However, unresolved issues remain, particularly concerning Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium and the lifting of U.S. sanctions.
Trump’s Contradictory Statements
In a post on Truth Social, President Donald Trump claimed that any deal would be “great and meaningful, or there will be no deal at all.” This statement reflects Trump’s ongoing pressure from critics within the Republican Party, who are urging him to take a tougher stance on Iran. Trump has previously criticized the Obama administration for its approach to Iran, particularly the $1.7 billion cash payment made as part of the 2015 nuclear deal, which he labeled as a “bad deal.”
Iran’s Nuclear Stockpile and U.S. Demands
Baghaei clarified that the current negotiations would not address nuclear issues, including the fate of Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile, except for a commitment to negotiate within the next 60 days. Trump, however, is under pressure to include a commitment from Iran to dispose of its stockpile, even if the method is not specified. In past negotiations, Iran has indicated a willingness to down-blend its enriched uranium but has refused to allow its transfer to the U.S. or Russia.
Political Chaos in Washington
Baghaei highlighted the chaotic political environment in Washington, stating, “You are faced with a wave of dismissals, contradictory statements, opposition from Congress and also opposition from parts of public opinion.” This turmoil may be influencing Trump’s decision-making regarding the potential release of $12 billion in frozen Iranian assets held in Qatar, a central demand from Iran.
Israel’s Role in the Negotiations
Baghaei accused Israel of attempting to undermine the negotiations, asserting that “nothing else should be expected of the Israelis.” This accusation underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play, as Israel has historically opposed any agreements that could enhance Iran’s regional influence.
Fees for Navigational Services
On the topic of the Strait of Hormuz, Baghaei stated that future management would be a matter for Oman and Iran to negotiate, emphasizing that the proposed fees should not be referred to as tolls. “We do not charge tolls. I think we should be careful in the choice of words,” he said, aiming to clarify Iran’s position on the matter.
Conclusion: A Hostile Coexistence?
As the situation unfolds, many commentators within Iran view the potential deal as a roadmap to a hostile coexistence rather than a resolution of tensions. The complexities of U.S. domestic politics, combined with regional dynamics and Iran’s insistence on specific terms, suggest that a comprehensive agreement remains elusive. With Trump’s contradictory statements and the ongoing pressure from various factions, the path forward is fraught with uncertainty.