WASHINGTON: The United States has indicated that a comprehensive peace agreement with Iran could be reached in the near future, with officials emphasizing that any deal would prioritize American interests and aim to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated that while temporary ceasefires have reduced large-scale conflict, attacks continue on both sides. He said, “Whenever Iran strikes trade routes, the US military responds. Our goal remains a durable agreement that keeps Iran out of the nuclear arms race.”
In an interview with NBC News, President Donald Trump emphasized that Washington will not consider lifting sanctions or restoring Iran’s frozen assets until a formal agreement is finalized. “These steps will come later,” Trump said. “If Iran demonstrates the right behaviour and takes meaningful action, we will begin negotiations.”
Trump also addressed Lebanon’s potential role in any short-term agreements with Iran, clarifying that he is not demanding its involvement but acknowledges it may want to participate.
The president further suggested he is prepared to engage directly with Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has remained publicly absent since being injured during early US strikes. “We are very close to a deal; otherwise, I would take decisive action,” Trump said.
The statements come amid growing optimism in Washington about achieving a strategic agreement that addresses both regional stability and Iran’s nuclear program, while signalling that US sanctions and financial restrictions will remain in place until the deal is formally sealed.
China Praises Pakistan’s Role in Iran-US Ceasefire Efforts
Earlier, China has praised Pakistan’s role in promoting peace in the Middle East and facilitating dialogue between Iran and the United States, describing Islamabad as a reliable mediator in regional diplomacy.
Chinese Ambassador to Iran Kang Piao, in an exclusive interview with an Iranian news outlet, expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s role in mediating the temporary ceasefire between Iran and the United States, including talks hosted by Pakistan in Islamabad.
Kang stated that the recently erupted crisis between Iran, the United States, and Israel had demonstrated how important it was to settle any disputes through dialogue and diplomacy. The envoy reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to respect Iran’s sovereignty, integrity, and security, noting that China will continue with its constructive efforts to contribute to peace and stability in the region.
The ambassador made it clear that China does not have any selfish motives in the Middle East region and will work for peace and development in the area.
Regarding the strategic value of the Strait of Hormuz, the Chinese ambassador stressed that it is an important water passage for world commerce and energy, rendering its protection and unhindered navigation an international affair.
Moreover, he added that normal trading activities between Iran and China would remain unchanged regardless of any external pressures that may be exerted upon these countries. In his opinion, the Chinese government would never let any other countries interfere with their economic partnership.
Finally, Ambassador Kang noted that recent disputes between Iran and America proved the increasing role of international law in international relations and that “the international community can ill afford a ‘law of the jungle’ approach to global affairs.”
