October 8, 2026
US Vice President J.D. Vance stressed the need for any potential agreement to end the war that has been going on for more than seven months to include a fundamental reduction in Iran’s capabilities to enrich uranium, stressing that Washington will not be satisfied with political pledges and demands concrete practical steps from Tehran.
In an interview with Reuters, Vance pointed out that proving the peaceful intentions of the Iranian nuclear program requires abandoning the production of highly enriched fuel, asking: “If you do not want a nuclear weapon, why do you need fuel enriched by 60 percent?” Although he confirmed that the United States was open to reaching a settlement, he warned that the American administration “will not replace words with actions.”
Vance explained that Washington still lacks certainty about the decision-making mechanism within the Iranian leadership regarding the negotiations, at a time when indirect contacts continue in an effort to stop the conflict. It is noteworthy that Vance had participated in diplomatic efforts that resulted in a temporary agreement last September, before it quickly collapsed.
These statements coincide with the two sides exchanging proposals in recent weeks to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which is vital for energy shipping. According to Reuters, US President Donald Trump rejected the latest offer made by Tehran, warning of the possibility of an escalation of military operations following the midterm congressional elections in November.
