The Trump administration says it has entered the final and potentially most critical stage of negotiations with Iran, combining diplomatic efforts with a continued U.S. military presence in the region.
President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are leading talks in Qatar focused on Iran’s nuclear program, regional security, and maintaining freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. During a visit to India, Rubio said restoring unrestricted maritime traffic remains a top priority, describing any disruption to international shipping as unacceptable. He added that negotiations have made progress but warned the United States is prepared to walk away if key objectives are not achieved.
Meanwhile, U.S. Central Command confirmed it conducted self-defense strikes targeting missile launch sites and vessels near Bandar Abbas after officials said American aircraft and naval forces faced threats from Iranian missile systems. The incidents occurred despite an existing ceasefire.
The proposed agreement would require Iran to eliminate its stockpile of highly enriched uranium and suspend uranium enrichment for 20 to 30 years under strict international monitoring. In return, Washington would ease selected sanctions and maritime restrictions. Iranian officials acknowledge progress in the negotiations but say significant differences remain, leaving the outcome uncertain despite cautious optimism from both sides.
