US, Iran ‘very close’ to agreement amid ongoing talks, JD Vance says

The US and Iran are very “close to” a final deal after months-long conflict, Vice President JD Vance said on Thursday evening.

When asked by the BBC about the proximity of a potential agreement, Vance stated that it remains too early to determine “when or if” a final deal will be reached.

The proposed agreement would supposedly extend the current ceasefire for 60 days while launching talks on the future of Iran’s nuclear program.

Vance said negotiators were "going back and forth on a couple of language points", including the "question of enrichment".

"We're not there yet, but we're very close and we're going to keep on working at it," he told reporters.

Earlier on Thursday, Trump administration officials confirmed that Tehran and Washington had agreed to a framework of deal, but it remained to be approved by both the US President and Iran’s leadership.

However, Iran’s semi-official news agency Tasnim had not confirmed the finalization of any deal.

Key issues at stake

The first and foremost issue that lies at the heart of negotiation is the US’ demand to halt the production of highly enriched uranium and dispose of its existing stockpile.

The proposal also included dilution of the material either in Iran or a third location.

Potential concessions involve the US lifting its naval blockade of Iranian ports and issuing waivers to allow Iran to resume international oil sales.

Furthermore, reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is another key issue. The proposed framework includes Iran clearing mines from the area within a month and restoration of unrestricted passage for global commerce.

The Iranian proposal also demanded the withdrawal of US forces from the vicinity of Iran.