Trump Says Iran Talks Are Constructive as Nuclear Deal Nears Breakthrough

US President Donald Trump said negotiations between the United States and Iran are moving in a “constructive” direction as reports emerge of a possible breakthrough agreement aimed at ending months of conflict and reopening one of the world’s most critical shipping routes.

Posting on Truth Social, Trump said the talks were proceeding in an “orderly and constructive manner” but stressed that Iran “must understand” it cannot develop or obtain a nuclear weapon. He added that American negotiators had been instructed not to rush into an agreement, saying “time is on our side.”

The US president also confirmed that the blockade on Iranian ports would remain in place until a final agreement is reached, certified and officially signed by both sides. Trump described the negotiations as the “exact opposite” of the 2015 nuclear agreement signed during former President Barack Obama’s administration, which he has repeatedly criticised.

The developments come amid growing speculation that Washington and Tehran are close to finalising a temporary deal that could dramatically reduce tensions across the Middle East. According to multiple reports, the proposed framework may include a 60 day ceasefire extension, partial sanctions relief for Iran and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway through which around 20% of the world’s oil supply passes.

The strait has been effectively disrupted since fighting escalated earlier this year following joint US and Israeli strikes on Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure. Commercial shipping through the corridor sharply declined after Iran responded with naval threats and mining operations, leaving hundreds of vessels delayed and global energy markets under pressure.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said earlier in New Delhi that “significant progress” had been made in negotiations, though he cautioned that the talks had not yet reached a final stage. Rubio hinted that Trump could make another announcement later in the day as discussions continue behind closed doors.

Reports from US media outlets suggest the draft deal could include the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz without tolls, the clearing of naval mines by Iran and temporary waivers on sanctions related to Iranian oil exports. In exchange, Iran would reportedly commit to negotiations on limiting its nuclear programme and pledge not to pursue nuclear weapons.

Iranian officials, however, have pushed back against claims that Tehran has agreed to surrender enriched uranium or dismantle its nuclear infrastructure. Iranian state media insisted that the country’s nuclear programme remains outside the scope of the current ceasefire negotiations.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran was prepared to reassure the world that it is not seeking nuclear weapons, while also insisting Iran would not compromise on its “dignity and honour.” Iranian authorities continue to maintain that the country’s nuclear programme is intended solely for civilian purposes.

The issue remains highly sensitive internationally. In 2018, Trump withdrew the United States from the earlier Iran nuclear deal and reimposed sanctions on Tehran. Since then, Iran has significantly expanded its uranium enrichment activities, prompting concerns from Western governments and the International Atomic Energy Agency.

The conflict intensified further in June 2025 when the US bombed key Iranian nuclear sites at Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan. Trump claimed the strikes had “completely and totally obliterated” Iran’s nuclear facilities, although later Pentagon assessments reportedly suggested the attacks delayed the programme rather than destroying it entirely.

The wider war began on 28 February when the US and Israel launched coordinated strikes targeting Iran’s missile systems, military facilities and senior leadership. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed during the opening phase of the attacks, according to Israeli and US officials. His son, Mojtaba Khamenei, later assumed leadership.

Since then, tensions have spread across the region, including into Lebanon, where fighting between Israel and the Iran backed group Hezbollah has continued despite multiple ceasefire agreements.

The humanitarian toll has been severe. Lebanese authorities say more than 3,000 people have been killed and over one million displaced since the conflict expanded earlier this year. Israel has also continued military operations in southern Lebanon, accusing Hezbollah of repeatedly violating ceasefire terms.

International leaders have cautiously welcomed reports of progress in the US Iran negotiations. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen both said Iran must never be allowed to develop nuclear weapons while supporting efforts toward a diplomatic resolution.

Pakistan has also played a central role in mediating discussions between Tehran and Washington. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar described recent negotiations as grounds for “optimism” and said a positive outcome was now “within reach.”

Despite growing momentum, Iranian media reports say disagreements remain over frozen Iranian assets and sanctions tied to oil exports. Officials in Tehran have warned that the agreement cannot be finalised if what they describe as “US obstruction” continues.

Analysts say the coming days will be critical in determining whether the negotiations can deliver a lasting settlement or merely a temporary pause in one of the most dangerous conflicts the Middle East has faced in recent years.