US and Iran unable to reach agreement, is war imminent?
A graphic design on a billboard in Tehran depicts netting adversary warplanes in the Strait of Hormuz. Photo: Reuters.
Both the United States and Iran are nowhere near reaching an agreement to permanently end the war. This was reported by Reuters on Saturday, based on the latest US intelligence.
Intelligence reports suggest that Tehran has the capability to resist the ongoing US naval blockade of Iranian ports for several more months.
Despite multiple rounds of talks following a temporary ceasefire that began a month ago, no solution has been reached. However, as part of diplomatic efforts for a permanent treaty, Washington recently offered a proposal to Tehran, suggesting the withdrawal of the US naval blockade in exchange for Iran relinquishing control of Hormuz.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had expressed expectations in a statement that the Iranians would respond by Friday. But that did not happen.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said on that day that the US proposal is still under review and a response will be provided in due course.
He said deadlines set by American politicians hold no value to Tehran, stating that they do their own work and do not concern themselves with deadlines or ultimatums.
Baghaei mentioned that one of the reasons for the delay is that it is a highly complex task. Those Iranians negotiating with the US are concerned about every date and word in the proposal. Secondly, all relevant institutions and individuals must reach a consensus.
Meanwhile, US ally United Arab Emirates came under a new attack on Friday, although Iran has denied any involvement.
On the other hand, US diplomatic sources report that Washington is preparing to increase sanctions on Tehran to exert further pressure.
On Friday, the US Treasury Department announced sanctions against 10 individuals and entities, including several from China and Hong Kong, for assisting the Iranian military in procuring weapons and raw materials used to manufacture Shahed drones.
In a statement, the US Treasury Department said it is prepared to take action against any foreign company supporting Iran's illicit trade and may impose secondary sanctions on foreign financial institutions, including those linked to independent Chinese oil refineries. (Sources: Reuters and Al Jazeera)