US Vice President JD Vance said the United States has made significant progress in recent negotiations with Iran, but stressed that any further diplomatic movement now depends on Tehran.
Speaking on Fox News Special Report with Bret Baier, Vance said talks had advanced substantially, though Iran did not move far enough toward a final agreement.
‘Ball is in Iran’s court’
Vance said Washington has placed a “serious proposal” on the table and is now waiting for Iran’s response, adding that “the ball is in Iran’s court” regarding the future of negotiations.
A major sticking point in the talks remains the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route. Vance warned that failure to fully reopen the strait would significantly alter the course of diplomatic engagement.
US officials have repeatedly stressed that maintaining freedom of navigation through the waterway is central to regional and global economic stability.
US pressure on Iran intensifies
The vice president’s remarks came amid reports that the United States has begun restricting maritime movement linked to Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz.
Former US President Donald Trump said the measures were intended to increase pressure on Tehran to return to meaningful negotiations.
Vance reiterated that Iran must not be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons under any circumstances. He said Washington’s red lines include the removal of enriched uranium stockpiles and the implementation of strict international verification mechanisms to prevent weapon development.
No deal yet, but signs of progress
The vice president also referred to recent negotiations involving US officials in Islamabad, which ended without a final agreement. Despite the lack of a deal, Vance said the discussions produced “some good signs” and demonstrated potential pathways forward.
He emphasized that future engagement hinges entirely on Iran’s willingness to advance negotiations and meet US conditions.
Vance said Washington remains open to what he described as a “grand deal”, but only if Tehran takes concrete steps toward compliance and de-escalation.
