U.S. Media: Progress in U.S.-Iran Negotiations, Agreement Still Unlikely

On April 7, Xinhua News Agency reported from Washington that U.S. and Israeli officials, along with two other informed sources, revealed that negotiations between the U.S. and Iran have made progress in the past 24 hours. However, the hope of reaching an agreement before the deadline set by President Trump at 8 PM Eastern Time on the same day remains slim.

These sources indicated that negotiations are expected to continue in the coming hours, lasting until the deadline set by Trump. On the 6th, Iran submitted a proposal to the U.S. through mediators regarding the relevant issues. The White House believes that although the proposal does not align with the U.S. position, it has some positive significance. The mediators then began revising and redrafting the proposal with the Iranian side. Trump stated on the morning of the 7th that the negotiations with Iran are "very serious," but he is still uncertain whether an agreement can ultimately be reached.

One informed source said, "The mediators are pushing this matter vigorously. The atmosphere of the negotiations is serious and earnest. We will wait for Iran's decision."

Reports indicate that the current key challenges are twofold: first, how to meet Iran's demands for strong guarantees that the U.S. and Israel will not resume hostilities after a brief ceasefire; second, the Iranian leadership's delayed response due to security concerns. Currently, the focus of discussions is on a series of confidence-building measures taken by both the U.S. and Iran, particularly the restoration of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for a commitment to end the war. Relevant parties are also discussing a 45-day ceasefire agreement aimed at creating conditions for a broader agreement.

Regarding the possibility of a face-to-face meeting between U.S. Vice President Pence, who is leading the U.S. delegation, and the Iranian delegation, it has been brought back to the agenda. Additionally, there are reports that the negotiation teams from the U.S. and Iran are discussing holding a video conference with the participation of Pakistan.

Reports state that over the past two weeks, the U.S. and Iran have been exchanging proposals and counter-proposals through mediators from Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey. Pence, U.S. President's envoy Wittekov, and Trump's son-in-law Kushner are all involved in the negotiations. Wittekov also maintains direct communication channels with Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Zarif.

On the 6th, Trump reiterated that whether the conflict with Iran is about to escalate or come to an end depends on Iran's response to his "deadline" set for 8 PM Eastern Time on the 7th. On the 7th, he posted on social media threatening Iran, stating: "Tonight, all civilization will be destroyed. I do not wish for this to happen, but it may happen."