Diplomacy – US Resistance Slows Progress on Iran Peace Understanding
Diplomacy – The United States and Iran remain divided over several key conditions in a proposed memorandum of understanding aimed at formally ending recent hostilities between the two countries.
The disagreement, according to reports published by Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency, centers on specific provisions that Washington has reportedly refused to approve during ongoing diplomatic discussions. One of the main sticking points is the release of Iranian financial assets that have remained frozen under international restrictions.
Talks Continue Despite Major Differences
Sources cited by Tasnim stated that representatives from both nations held further discussions on Sunday in an effort to narrow the gap. However, negotiators have yet to reach common ground on several sensitive issues linked to the proposed agreement.
The report suggested that uncertainty still surrounds the future of the memorandum, with the possibility remaining that the document could ultimately collapse if both sides fail to compromise. Iranian officials have reportedly maintained that Tehran will not retreat from what it considers its non-negotiable national interests.
Iran Emphasizes Protection of National Rights
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed over the weekend that negotiations with the United States are focused on creating a framework to end tensions following weeks of military confrontation.
Speaking to Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB TV, Baghaei explained that both countries are attempting to finalize a memorandum containing 14 separate clauses. He said Tehran’s immediate priority is to bring an end to what Iranian officials describe as an imposed conflict.
According to Baghaei, the discussions are expected to continue over the coming weeks, with hopes that a broader and more permanent agreement could be reached within one to two months.
Frozen Assets and Maritime Restrictions Central to Discussions
Among the most difficult issues under negotiation are the removal of what Iran calls US maritime restrictions and the unfreezing of Iranian funds held abroad.
Iranian officials believe access to these blocked financial resources is essential for rebuilding economic stability after the recent conflict. At the same time, Washington is reportedly seeking guarantees related to regional security and maritime activity before agreeing to additional concessions.
Diplomatic observers say these disputes have become central obstacles preventing the memorandum from moving forward quickly.
Background of the Recent Conflict
The current diplomatic effort follows a 40-day period of fighting involving Iran, the United States and Israel. The conflict began on February 28 after military operations carried out by US and Israeli forces against Iranian targets.
Hostilities eventually ended with a ceasefire agreement announced on April 8. Since then, several indirect and direct diplomatic contacts have taken place in an attempt to prevent another escalation in the region.
Earlier Peace Talks Failed to Produce Agreement
Following the ceasefire, Iranian and American delegations met in Islamabad, Pakistan, for two days of negotiations held on April 11 and April 12. Despite expectations of progress, those discussions concluded without a breakthrough.
Analysts believe both countries remain cautious due to long-standing mistrust and competing strategic interests in the Middle East. Nevertheless, ongoing communication between the two sides suggests that diplomatic channels remain active despite repeated setbacks.
The coming weeks are expected to be crucial as negotiators attempt to resolve unresolved clauses and determine whether a formal understanding can still be achieved.