Tehran reported that the United States' most recent proposal has narrowed key differences in talks aimed at converting a fragile ceasefire into a lasting agreement. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani made the comments during a press briefing, noting that the new offer addresses several sticking points that had stalled progress in recent weeks.
According to Kanaani, the proposal includes adjustments on monitoring mechanisms and economic relief measures. "The latest U.S. proposal has partly bridged the gap between the warring sides," he said, adding that further discussions are scheduled for next week in a European capital. Officials did not disclose the exact location to maintain the confidentiality of the process.
The ceasefire, which took effect earlier this month following weeks of intense fighting, has been described by both sides as tenuous. Reports indicate that violations have occurred along the border regions, though the scale remains limited. International observers from the United Nations have been deployed to monitor compliance, with initial assessments expected within days.
Washington has not publicly confirmed the details of its latest offer. A State Department spokesperson said only that talks continue and that the U.S. remains committed to a diplomatic resolution. Analysts note that previous proposals had focused heavily on security guarantees, while the current version reportedly incorporates economic incentives requested by Iranian negotiators.
Regional powers have watched the developments closely. Saudi Arabia issued a statement urging all parties to exercise restraint, while Israel expressed caution about any agreement that might weaken existing security arrangements. European Union diplomats, who have facilitated several rounds of indirect talks, described the Iranian reaction as a positive signal but stressed that many details still require clarification.
Background to the current negotiations dates back to last year's escalation, when cross-border incidents increased sharply. The conflict disrupted oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz and led to a spike in global energy prices. Several countries in the region have since called for renewed diplomatic engagement to prevent a broader confrontation.
Inside Iran, reactions have been mixed. Hardline factions in parliament criticized the government for engaging with Washington at all, while reformist voices welcomed any movement toward de-escalation. State media highlighted Kanaani's remarks as evidence that diplomacy can still yield results.
Market reaction was immediate. Oil futures fell nearly two percent on the news, reflecting hopes that tensions may ease further. Traders cited the Iranian statement as the main driver behind the price movement, though analysts cautioned that volatility could return if talks stall again.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the reported progress in a statement issued from New York. He urged both sides to build on the current momentum and avoid actions that could undermine the ceasefire. Guterres also called for humanitarian access to affected areas, where aid organizations have reported shortages of medical supplies and food.
Further rounds of talks are expected to address remaining disputes over inspection protocols and the sequencing of sanctions relief. Iranian officials have insisted that any final deal must include firm commitments on lifting certain economic restrictions, while U.S. negotiators have emphasized verification measures.
Diplomats involved in the process described the atmosphere as cautiously optimistic. One European mediator, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the latest proposal represents the most detailed framework presented so far. Still, the source warned that significant gaps persist on issues related to regional influence and arms limitations.
Public opinion in both countries appears divided. Polls conducted in recent days show that a majority of Americans support continued diplomatic efforts, while Iranian respondents expressed skepticism about whether Washington will follow through on any commitments. These attitudes could influence how negotiators approach the next phase of discussions.
As the talks move forward, attention will focus on whether the current momentum can be sustained. Officials on both sides have indicated that a breakthrough remains possible but will require additional compromises. The coming weeks are expected to test whether the reported narrowing of gaps can translate into a durable agreement.