A White House official revealed that the U.S. administration believes Iran is still interested in reaching an agreement with the United States. However, according to Washington, Tehran's positions remain delayed and fall short of the necessary level for an understanding.
The official, in statements to Al Jazeera, noted, "The Iranians want to make a deal with us, but their stances are always delayed and inadequate," highlighting the persistent gap between the two parties despite open communication channels.
He confirmed that U.S. President Donald Trump retains all options at his disposal in dealing with Iran, without specifying the nature of potential steps Washington might take moving forward.
These U.S. statements align with signals from Tehran expressing readiness to return to previous understandings with Washington.
On September 1, Iranian President Masoud Bazshkian announced Iran's readiness to reinstate commitments outlined in the interim memorandum of understanding with the United States reached in June, provided Washington also resumes its obligations.
The June memorandum was an attempt to contain the confrontation between the United States and Iran but was later hindered by renewed disputes and escalations. Key issues connected to ongoing talks include halting military operations, sanctions, and navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
While discussions about potentially returning to diplomatic tracks continue, Washington maintains economic pressure on Tehran. Iranian oil exports have sharply declined in recent weeks amid restrictions on tanker movements through the Strait of Hormuz.
Communications between the parties persist with both holding firm to their conditions as Washington insists any potent agreement must encompass Iranian steps deemed sufficient by the U.S. administration to meet their demands.