Vance says "still TBD" if Trump will sign a U.S.-Iran deal
Vice President JD Vance stated that U.S.-Iran negotiations on a 60-day ceasefire extension and nuclear talks are 'very close' but still uncertain whether President Trump will sign a deal, despite progress. Meanwhile, the U.S. tightened sanctions on Iranian oil sales and denied Iranian claims of shooting down a U.S. plane near Bushehr, as tensions persist amid ongoing indirect talks mediated by Pakistan.
U.S. and Iranian negotiators are close to finalizing a memorandum of understanding that would extend their ceasefire by 60 days and initiate discussions on Iran’s nuclear program, but the deal remains pending. Vice President JD Vance described the talks as making 'a lot of progress' but emphasized it is 'still TBD' whether President Trump will sign the agreement. The ceasefire has faced strain after the Pentagon conducted defensive strikes this week, prompting Iran to accuse the U.S. of violating the truce and threaten retaliation, though no U.S. base was hit. Pakistan is playing a key role in mediating the indirect negotiations, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio meeting Pakistani Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar in Washington to discuss the potential deal. The meeting follows reports that a tentative agreement has been reached but is awaiting final approvals. Meanwhile, U.S. Central Command denied Iranian state media claims that an American plane was shot down near Bushehr, confirming all U.S. aircraft are accounted for. The Trump administration intensified pressure on Iran’s oil exports by imposing new sanctions on eight vessels and several Hong Kong-based companies linked to Iran’s military-owned petroleum company. The Treasury Department stated these entities facilitate oil sales to China and other markets, aiming to restrict Iran’s revenue streams. The sanctions target vessel charterers, front companies, and suppliers of refined petroleum products to Iran’s state oil company. Despite the fragile ceasefire, Vance reiterated optimism, stating, 'We're not there yet, but we're very close,' while acknowledging ongoing negotiations. The U.S. continues to balance diplomatic efforts with economic and military measures to influence Iran’s actions. As talks progress, Pakistan’s mediation remains critical in bridging the gaps between the two sides.
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