US-Iran Talks Continue as Nuclear Dispute Delays Potential Deal

Diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran continued on Tuesday as both sides remained divided over Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief and security around the Strait of Hormuz. Qatar is continuing to act as a mediator between Washington and Tehran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said he hopes to receive a US response to Tehran’s proposal, which includes demands related to sanctions relief, frozen Iranian assets and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. A US official described the talks as “constructive” but said significant differences remain, particularly ov

Diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran continued on Tuesday as both sides remained divided over Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief and security around the Strait of Hormuz. Qatar is continuing to act as a mediator between Washington and Tehran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said he hopes to receive a US response to Tehran’s proposal, which includes demands related to sanctions relief, frozen Iranian assets and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. A US official described the talks as “constructive” but said significant differences remain, particularly over nuclear issues. US Vice President JD Vance also said there is still a possibility of reaching an agreement if Iran meets US demands and honours commitments made during negotiations. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has meanwhile appealed directly to the American public, accusing the United States of committing what it called “war crimes” and urging Washington to end its military campaign in the region. The IRGC also criticized US President Donald Trump, who has rejected reports that his administration offered Tehran sanctions relief and access to frozen funds. Tensions remain high around the Strait of Hormuz, a major route for global energy shipments. The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency reported that a vessel was struck by a suspected projectile while crossing the waterway. A fire was extinguished, the crew was reported safe and the vessel continued its journey. The conflict is also affecting Lebanon and Gaza. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has urged Washington to press Israel to implement a framework agreement covering southern Lebanon, including an Israeli withdrawal and the deployment of Lebanese forces. In Gaza, Palestinian casualties were reported following Israeli military actions, while tensions also continued in the occupied West Bank. With negotiations still underway, the main disagreements remain centered on Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions, maritime security and the conditions for ending hostilities.