US President Donald Trump has said he is offering Iran a “better deal” as uncertainty surrounds the second round of negotiations between Washington and Tehran, with Iran yet to confirm its participation.
In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump said the proposed agreement would be “far better” than the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which aimed to curb Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief.
The JCPOA was signed between Iran and the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, along with Germany and the European Union. Trump had criticized the agreement during his 2016 presidential campaign and later withdrew the United States from the deal in 2018 after taking office.
The latest diplomatic push comes amid rising tensions in the region, particularly over the Strait of Hormuz, where the United States has imposed a blockade on Iranian ports. Iran, in turn, has backed away from its earlier commitment to keep the strategic waterway open during a ceasefire reached nearly two weeks ago.
According to Trump, a US delegation including Vice President JD Vance, senior adviser Jared Kushner, and Special Representative Steve Witkoff is expected to travel to Islamabad for the proposed second round of talks.
However, Iran has not confirmed its participation. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said during a weekly briefing that Tehran has not yet decided on attending the next round of negotiations.
Baqaei cited the recent US seizure of an Iranian ship as a key factor behind the delay, describing the move as an “act of aggression.”
The developments highlight a widening gap between the two sides even as diplomatic efforts continue. While Washington signals readiness for negotiations with a revised framework, Tehran has indicated reservations amid escalating tensions on the ground.
The situation remains fluid, with the outcome of the proposed talks uncertain as both sides weigh their positions against the backdrop of military and economic pressure in the region. [KNT]
© Kashmir News Trust (KNT). Unauthorized use without attribution is prohibited.
