The latest announcement from US President Donald Trump about ending the war between the two nations has brought new optimism about reaching a potential breakthrough through diplomacy with Iran, who claims that the United States is “hopefully close” to concluding its war with Tehran and has been communicating directly with the Iranian officials.
This statement was issued by Trump on Wednesday, September 16, when the war had already lasted for seven months, creating more tension in the energy markets, in the region’s governments, and internationally for ending the war. Trump has stated that Iran wants to strike a deal; however, there has been no official confirmation yet from Tehran about negotiating directly with Washington.
The situation, therefore, remains complex. Whereas recent statements made by Trump indicate that there could be a diplomatic way out, the Iranian officials have continued to put conditions for any negotiation process.
Trump Says The US May Be Nearing The End Of The War
While talking to reporters, Trump said,“hopefully we are toward the end of the war,” and further added that Iran was hoping to reach an agreement. When asked if he was contacted directly by the Iranian party, Trump said that he was contacted directly, though he did not give any information about whom he talked to.
This remark is important because so far the communications between Washington and Tehran during this war have been done through intermediaries such as Qatar, Oman, and Pakistan.
However, Tehran has not publicly confirmed Trump’s description of direct negotiations. Iranian Supreme National Security Council official Mohsen Rezaei said Iran would not enter talks until its conditions were met, while Iranian officials have continued to call for the implementation of commitments made under an earlier agreement.
It should be noted that there is still a difference between contact and formal negotiation. As seen from the statement made by Trump, some contact might be established, although there is no new agreement on peace and cease-fire yet.
Why The June Agreement Still Matters
The latest diplomatic efforts are also tied to an earlier US-Iranian understanding.
An agreement in form of Memorandum of Understanding facilitated by Pakistan was made in June with the aim of creating a window of 60 days to engage in peace talks. The deal also incorporated measures associated with the opening of the Strait of Hormuz.
The talks subsequently fell apart due to each side blaming the other for breaching commitments made during the deal. The President of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian, said that Iran will get back to the agreement if the United States reciprocates the same.
This is one of the main sticking points in relation to potential future talks. Iran has been insisting on the US respecting the agreement, whereas the United States wants a situation where it can address its concerns about Iran’s nuclear capability.
The Strait Of Hormuz Has Become A Major Pressure Point
Any diplomatic breakthrough will also have to deal with the Strait of Hormuz.
Prior to the war, about one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas traveled through the strait. According to Iran, the strait will not be reopened until the American blockade is removed. The disruption has resulted in an economic effect at the international level. Reuters reports that the prices for oil remained stable at about $100 to $110 per barrel, while fuel prices have also risen sharply.
What Are Iran’s Conditions For Returning To Talks With The US?
End to military attacks
Iran wants the US and Israel to halt their military activities on the territories of Iran before the process of negotiation could commence.
Security guarantees
Tehran expects some guarantees that the US and Israel will not conduct an attack on them once there is an agreement.
Sanctions relief
Iran wants US sanctions lifted and restrictions on its economy and oil exports eased.
War compensation
Compensation or help to repair the damages created by the dispute has been called for by Tehran.
Strait of Hormuz
The opening of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran would have to be made in connection with security and sovereignty arrangements.
Nuclear programme
Iran also insists on its right to have a nuclear programme in a peaceful manner during negotiations on the issue.
Regional security
Iran expects that its regional security considerations and connections would be considered as opposed to being unilaterally imposed by the United States of America.
This is a developing story.
Sources: Al Jazeera, Reuters.
