Tehran Toughens Stance on US Negotiations

US officials expressed growing frustration Wednesday over a list of conditions presented by Iran for entering negotiations to end the war, as conflicting signals continue to emerge regarding diplomatic efforts.

According to a report, Iran conveyed its demands through third-party intermediaries, with no direct contact currently taking place between Washington and Tehran.

Among the key conditions, Iran is said to be seeking economic control over the Strait of Hormuz, a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the ability to continue developing its ballistic missile program without restrictions.

Additional demands reportedly include the dismantling of US military bases in the region and financial compensation for damage caused during the war.

Officials in Washington and the region have dismissed the conditions as unrealistic, noting that they contradict core US objectives. The United States is reportedly demanding limits on Iran’s missile capabilities, an end to its support for regional proxy groups, and the dismantling of its nuclear program.

The gap between the two sides has raised doubts about the viability of any near-term agreement, despite public statements from US President Donald Trump suggesting progress in talks.

Iran has continued to deny that negotiations are taking place. In remarks carried by state media, a senior Iranian military spokesperson mocked the US position, saying Washington appeared to be “negotiating with itself.”

Iranian officials have repeatedly cited past experiences, including negotiations that coincided with military action, as a reason for their skepticism toward US intentions.

At the same time, diplomatic activity appears to be continuing indirectly. Sources familiar with mediation efforts said a US proposal outlining a potential framework for ending the war has been delivered to Tehran.

The reported plan includes elements such as sanctions relief, restrictions on Iran’s nuclear and missile programs, international monitoring, and guarantees for freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

Regional mediators have described the proposal as a starting point rather than a finalized agreement, noting that significant gaps remain and that extensive negotiations would be required even if both sides agree to engage.

The diplomatic uncertainty comes as military operations continue and tensions remain high across the region. While recent developments have included limited signals of de-escalation, officials on both sides appear far from agreement on the terms required to end the conflict.