JD Vance has said that further progress in peace negotiations with Iran now depends on Tehran’s next steps, following what he described as “significant progress” in recent discussions.
Read More: US-Iran Islamabad talks end without deal after marathon negotiations
Speaking in a Fox News interview after the Islamabad talks, Vance stated that the United States has already presented its proposals. “The ball is in Iran’s court,” he said, adding that any future dialogue or agreement would hinge on Iran’s willingness to respond.
Vance says ‘the ball is in Iran’s court’ to move peace talks further, as U.S. blockade takes effect via CNBC:https://t.co/zOerLVyrQ7
The U.S. team of Vance and special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner made progress with Iran during the Islamabad talks, the vice president…— 🌊💙 Viking Resistance 💙🌊 (@BlueCrewViking) April 13, 2026
The vice president reiterated Washington’s firm stance on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, stressing that Tehran must not attempt to acquire nuclear weapons. He said the United States has clearly communicated its red lines, including the removal of nuclear material from Iranian territory as part of any potential deal.
Vance also accused Iran of engaging in what he termed “economic terrorism” against the global community. Despite the criticism, he expressed cautious optimism about the direction of negotiations and the possibility of further progress.
A key issue highlighted by Vance was the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil shipping route. He emphasized that ensuring the strait remains fully operational is critical for international trade and energy markets.
According to Vance, a fragile 14-day ceasefire between the United States and Iran, which began last week, was partly based on Tehran’s commitment to reopen the strait. However, he claimed that Iran attempted to shift its position during the negotiations.
The vice president underscored that all US conditions for a peace agreement are rooted in preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons. He maintained that while progress has been made, the next phase of talks will depend on Iran’s actions.
Read More: JD Vance warns Iran ahead of Islamabad talks negotiations
The developments come amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions and stabilize the broader Middle East region.