US Vice President JD Vance asserts that Iran holds the key to progress in nuclear negotiations, declaring that decisions on further talks and final agreements rest entirely with Tehran.
Vance Addresses Stalled Discussions
Despite the first round of direct talks yielding no breakthroughs, the US maintains its dominant position and continues applying pressure. Vance made these remarks during a Fox News interview on January 13 (local time), stating, “We have already proposed many things,” and emphasizing, “Now the ball is in Iran’s court.”
This follows Vance’s trip to Pakistan on January 11-12, where he pressed the US ambassador to intensify nuclear cooperation efforts with Iran. However, top Iranian officials proved unreachable, prompting a stern evaluation of the lead negotiator and an early withdrawal from the table.
Reasons for US Pullback
Vance explained, “The current negotiation team lacked the capacity to secure an agreement, and obtaining supreme leader approval for our proposed terms required a return to Tehran.” He added that the US had gauged Iran’s negotiation tactics to some extent, which influenced the decision to step away.
Critics argue the US stance remains uncertain amid the impasse, with insufficient in-depth analysis available. Vance countered, “We cannot simply deem it a failure—there is no such outcome,” noting, “Clarifying America’s position marks progress in itself.”
US Demands and Long-Term Goals
Throughout the talks, the US has demanded Iran halt uranium enrichment, pledge cooperation on the Strait of Hormuz, and address other key issues. US envoys highlight that America has consistently sought Iran’s top uranium enrichment official as a permanent resident for two decades.
Comments on Global Allies
Addressing a public declaration between Pope Leo XIV, an outspoken critic of the Iranian regime, and President Donald Trump, Vance remarked that the Vatican may exercise caution in public policy to align with US interests, regardless. He stressed, “A clash between these two realms is impossible.”
