Despite speculation that a deal between the United States and Iran may be imminent, officials from both countries continue to issue contradictory statements, signaling an ongoing diplomatic impasse.
Speaking at Wednesday's cabinet meeting, US President Donald Trump said Iran would not receive any sanctions relief as a result of the negotiations. "We're not talking about any easing of sanctions or giving money," Trump stated.
Earlier, in an interview with PBS News, Trump reiterated his claim that Iran would surrender its enriched uranium. "They're going to give up their highly enriched uranium, not for sanctions relief. No, no, not at all," he said.
However, Tehran has stated it will not relinquish its estimated 440 kg of nuclear material. Over a month ago, Trump claimed Iran had agreed to allow the US to retrieve the uranium at a "leisurely pace," but Iran quickly denied this.
The back-and-forth over Iran's nuclear program remains a key point of divergence in ceasefire negotiations. Other contentious issues include the continuation of US sanctions, the blockade of Iranian ports, and control over the Strait of Hormuz.
At the cabinet meeting, Trump repeated claims that Iran's navy and air force are destroyed. "They want very much to make a deal," he said of Iran, but added that current negotiations have fallen short of expectations. "We're not satisfied with it, but we will be. Either that or we'll have to just finish the job," Trump suggested, hinting at further military action.
The US and Israel launched a war against Iran on February 28 without direct provocation, killing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and several top officials, as well as hundreds of civilians. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks and closed the Strait of Hormuz.
The blockade has sent energy prices soaring globally and fueled inflation in the US. The Trump administration has been unable to reopen the waterway by force.
Trump dismissed the prospect of a short-term deal and even hinted at a military response if Oman were to jointly control the strait. "Oman will behave just like everybody else, or we'll have to blow 'em up," he said.
A temporary ceasefire took effect on April 8, but efforts to resolve the crisis have stalled. On Saturday, Trump announced that a deal was being finalized after speaking to regional leaders.
The White House dismissed a report by Iran's state TV on a draft memorandum of understanding to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. "This report from Iranian controlled media is not true and the MOU they 'released' is a complete fabrication," the administration said.
Trump emphasized that the US will not accept Iranian control of Hormuz and will not offer immediate sanctions relief. "When they behave properly and when they do what's right, we'll let them have their money," he stated.
Source: www.aljazeera.com