US-Iran Talks Continue as Both Sides Downplay Immediate Breakthrough

The United States and Iran have lowered expectations of a quick breakthrough in efforts to end the ongoing conflict, signaling that key disagreements still remain despite recent diplomatic progress.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington remains committed to diplomacy but warned there would either be a strong agreement or the United States would pursue “another way.” His comments came after President Donald Trump urged negotiators not to rush into a deal, saying both sides must take time to reach the right outcome.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei also cooled expectations, saying discussions are focused on ending the war and that a final agreement is not close.

Strait of Hormuz and Nuclear Dispute Remain Key Issues

Negotiations continue to center on reopening the Strait of Hormuz previously carried nearly 20% of global oil and gas shipments.

US officials said Iran had agreed “in principle” to reopen the waterway and address its stockpile of highly enriched uranium in exchange for easing restrictions, though Tehran has not publicly confirmed those details.

Iran continues to demand sanctions relief and access to frozen oil revenues held abroad. Officials also said disagreements remain over nuclear issues and wider regional tensions.

Oil Prices Fall Despite Uncertainty

Oil prices dropped around 5% as markets reacted to signs of diplomatic progress. However, analysts say any final agreement could still take time, while the global energy market remains under pressure from ongoing regional instability.