US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said that negotiators from the United States and Iran are working toward what he described as a “pretty solid” proposal that could potentially lead to a breakthrough in talks aimed at ending the ongoing conflict between both countries.
Speaking during a visit to India, Rubio said discussions are still ongoing and that while progress has been made, the process remains delicate and unresolved. His comments came shortly after US President Donald Trump cautioned negotiators against rushing into any agreement, despite earlier signals suggesting a deal was close.
According to reports, the proposed framework under discussion includes a possible 60-day ceasefire extension, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz—a key global shipping route—and continued negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical maritime corridor through which a significant portion of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas passes, making its status central to global energy stability. Expectations around a potential agreement contributed to a drop in oil prices and a rise in Asian stock markets.
Rubio, however, urged caution, noting that the process depends on Iran’s internal response and communication channels, which he said remain complicated.
Reports from US media suggest that intelligence assessments indicate Iran’s leadership structure has been disrupted during the conflict, complicating diplomatic engagement and slowing negotiations.
Iranian officials have also acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the talks, describing the situation as being both “very close and very far” from a final agreement, with key issues such as sanctions relief, frozen assets, and nuclear restrictions still unresolved.
The emerging proposal has sparked political division within the United States, particularly among Republican lawmakers. Some have criticised the potential deal as too lenient, warning it could undermine military and strategic gains achieved during recent operations. Others argue it could leave Iran in a stronger regional position without sufficient concessions.
In response, President Trump defended the negotiations, insisting that any final agreement would be structured to serve US interests and dismissed criticism from opponents.
The conflict between the US and Iran, which escalated following joint strikes involving Israel and subsequent regional retaliation, has significantly impacted global energy routes, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, and contributed to volatility in oil markets.
