Officials of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s regime denied today that a peace agreement with the United States of America (USA) is imminent, blaming “constant changes” in Washington’s positions despite acknowledged progress in the talks. “It is true that we have reached conclusions on many issues under discussion, but that does not mean the signing of an agreement is imminent,” Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said during a press conference.
The official reiterated that the negotiations are strictly focused on ending the war and do not cover the Iranian nuclear program, a subject he stated will be addressed at a later date. Meanwhile, the United States affirmed today that it is close to finalizing a “solid” deal with Iran, coming just a day after U.S. President Donald Trump dampened hopes for an immediate breakthrough.
“We have what I consider to be something quite solid on the table regarding their capacity to open the strait” of Hormuz, as well as “entering into negotiations” regarding the Iranian nuclear program, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared in New Delhi.
Read more about this topic: Iran War: Rubio criticizes NATO allies for lack of support (with video)
Triggered on February 28 by a joint U.S. and Israeli strike on Iran, the conflict expanded across much of the Middle East and caused thousands of deaths, primarily in Iran and Lebanon, where the pro-Iranian movement Hezbollah joined hostilities in early March by attacking Israeli territory.
A ceasefire has been in effect since April 8 between Iran and the United States, but the global economy continues to be shaken by Iran’s near-blockade of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, which began nearly three months ago.
