WASHINGTON (Web Desk) – The United States has no strict deadline for Iran to reach an agreement to avoid a possible resumption of military strikes, Vice President JD Vance said Monday, expressing cautious optimism about ongoing diplomatic efforts between the two countries.
Speaking to reporters after returning to Washington from campaign stops in New York and Ohio, Vance said the Trump administration’s primary concern is ensuring that Iran does not rebuild or attempt to rebuild its nuclear program.
“We want to make sure they don’t rebuild it or try to rebuild it. That’s what matters most to the United States,” Vance said.
He stressed that any potential agreement must include a firm and verifiable commitment from Tehran to prevent the reconstruction of its nuclear capabilities.
Vance acknowledged that Iran places significant importance on its sovereignty and economic recovery, adding that Washington believes a negotiated settlement remains possible.
“We do think that there is a pathway there, but it really does require a firm commitment and a verifiable commitment that they don’t rebuild that nuclear program,” he said.
Vance Expresses Optimism Over Diplomatic Talks
The vice president said Washington and Tehran had held several positive discussions, raising hopes that an agreement could be reached without further military action.
“We’ve had a number of good conversations with the Iranians,” Vance told reporters.
He also revealed that he had spoken with President Donald Trump about the negotiations approximately an hour before addressing the media.
Vance said both leaders felt encouraged by the possibility of reaching a negotiated settlement and intended to continue diplomatic efforts.
Trump has repeatedly threatened renewed strikes against Iran but has indicated that he does not intend to launch new attacks before Tuesday’s U.S. midterm elections.
Private Letter Sent to Iranian Official
Vance also confirmed that he sent a letter to Iran’s security chief, Mohsen Rezaei, last week. However, the White House has provided few details about the contents of the correspondence.
Trump previously told reporters that the letter focused on providing Iran with assistance, including medical supplies and other necessities.
Despite the diplomatic contacts, the administration has maintained that preventing Iran from restoring its nuclear program remains its central objective.
The latest comments suggest that Washington is keeping diplomatic channels open while seeking verifiable guarantees from Tehran. However, it remains unclear when negotiations might produce a formal agreement or whether the two sides can resolve their differences without renewed military confrontation.