Trump Questions Iran's Intentions and Offers to Ease Sanctions in Exchange for Tangible Nuclear Concessions

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U.S. officials have reported that President Donald Trump is prepared to offer relief from sanctions imposed on Iran and to release frozen Iranian funds, in exchange for Tehran taking concrete steps regarding its nuclear program. The U.S. message comes at a time when Qatar and Pakistan are intensifying mediation efforts once again to reach an agreement between the U.S. and Iran, amid ongoing disputes between the two sides over key issues.

While Iran wants the negotiations to focus on the Strait of Hormuz and the U.S. naval blockade, the Trump administration insists that any settlement must include Iranian concessions regarding the nuclear file, according to Axios.

Despite Trump rejecting the latest Iranian proposal, mediators believe that the new U.S. offer could open the door to diplomatic progress. Qatari mediators are set to meet with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in New York on Monday to discuss a Qatari proposal that has been under negotiation for several days, and they are expected to hold meetings with officials in the Trump administration later on Monday or Tuesday, in an attempt to achieve a breakthrough.

A U.S. official familiar with the indirect talks stated that the negotiations are 'positive and constructive,' noting that Iran has shown a willingness to demonstrate flexibility on nuclear issues. However, he also emphasized that gaps still exist, stressing that there will be no agreement 'unless the nuclear issues are addressed.'

The official explained that the disagreement still exists regarding the timing of commitments and determining which party will take the first steps.

He added that maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz continues to rise, while the blockade and sanctions are putting pressure on the Iranian economy, considering that the U.S. position "grows stronger every day," and that Trump remains committed to his stated goal of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

The official pointed out that the White House remains skeptical of Iranian promises, accusing Tehran of violating the previous memorandum of understanding after firing on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz during July. The official stated that Washington needs this time "guarantees" that prove Iran's seriousness, not just an attempt to escape the difficult situation it currently faces.