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Conflict4 similar reports mergedIran says talks focus on ending war, not nuclear issue; US cautious on deal
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Iran's foreign ministry stated that Tehran is negotiating an end to the war, not the nuclear issue, as talks with the US continue. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the proposed agreement as 'pretty solid' but stressed that President Trump is not rushing into a deal and will only accept one that meets US standards. Key sticking points include Iran's near-weapons-grade uranium stockpile, enrichment capability, and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Rubio emphasized giving diplomacy every chance before exploring alternatives. The White House signaled a measured approach, with Trump saying the agreement is not yet 'fully negotiated.' Meanwhile, regional tensions persist, with Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon killing at least two people and eight Arab and Muslim nations condemning Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir over alleged abuse of Gaza flotilla activists.
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Updated: May 25, 2026 — 12:50 PM IST
US Officials Strike Cautious Tone on Iran Negotiations
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has described the proposed agreement with Iran as “pretty solid” while stressing that diplomacy must run its course. Speaking during a visit to India, Rubio emphasized that President Donald Trump is not rushing into a deal and that any agreement must meet US standards.
Key Developments
Iran’s Position
An Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson stated that Tehran is currently negotiating an end to the war, not the nuclear issue, according to Reuters. The near-weapons-grade uranium in Iran’s possession and its enrichment capability remain key sticking points in peace talks, alongside the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Rubio on the Proposed Framework
Secretary Rubio said the current framework under discussion includes provisions related to:
- Iran’s potential to reopen the Strait of Hormuz
- Meaningful, time-bound negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme
Trump ‘Not Going to Make a Bad Deal’
Reiterating the administration’s cautious stance, Rubio stressed that Trump would not rush the process.
“The president is not going to make a bad agreement, so let’s see what happens. We’re going to give diplomacy every chance to succeed before we explore the alternatives.”
Trump earlier indicated that a deal with Iran is not “fully negotiated yet,” signaling lingering differences between the two sides.
Cautious Tone in Washington
Officials in Washington have suggested that while progress is being made, finalizing an agreement could still take several days. The administration has maintained a measured approach amid uncertainty surrounding key sticking points.
Latest Developments
- Deal not finalised: Trump says the Iran agreement is still not “fully negotiated,” highlighting unresolved issues.
- Diplomatic push continues: Rubio emphasizes ongoing talks with global and regional support for the proposal.
- No rush from US: The White House signals Trump is willing to wait rather than accept a weak deal.
- Regional tensions rise: Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon have killed at least two people and injured several others.
- Arab backlash: Eight Arab and Muslim nations condemn Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir over alleged abuse of Gaza flotilla activists.
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