Iran is seeking economic relief from the U.S. without making major nuclear concessions, according to a new report.
Reuters cited three Iranian sources close to decision-makers to describe the situation in Tehran, noting that its leadership usually seeks to avoid making large compromises and keep negotiations alive but avoid making key commitments.
The outlet went on to note that while Iranian leadership behaves like it could maintain the current scenario indefinitely, seeking to exert pressure on the global economy by maintaining the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, internal conditions are also deteriorating.
In fact, the country's economic was already strained before the war began, with tens of thousands of people protesting harsh conditions and a weakened currency. Iranian forces heavily repressed the demonstrations and stand accused of killing thousands while keeping the country's internet down.
The latest version of an agreement, according to recent reports, would see "unrestricted" shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran would have to remove all mines from the key waterway within 30 days. The U.S. would also lift its naval blockade as commercial shipping is restored.
Iran would also make a commitment to not pursue a nuclear weapon, officials added. The nuclear program would be discussed during a 60-day period, which would include the disposal of the country's enriched uranium.
The U.S., in turn, would also commit to discuss sanctions relief and the release of frozen funds, as well as a mechanism to help the country receive goods and humanitarian aid.
However, talks seemed to stall over the past days. Trump said on Friday he would convene his national security team in the Situation Room to make a decision on the matter, but has not communicated it days later.
Iranian media said on Monday it was suspending talks over Israel's escalation in Lebanon. Trump reportedly slammed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the matter and forced him to cancel planned attacks in a Beirut suburb considered to be a Hezbollah stronghold.
Axios detailed that the call took place after Iran threatened to walk out of negotiations as a results of the increased attacks, including the anticipated strikes in Dahieh, the Beirut suburb.
A U.S. official said Trump's message could be summarized as such: "You're f--king crazy. You'd be in prison if it weren't for me. I'm saving your ass. Everybody hates you now. Everybody hates Israel because of this."
Shortly after the call Trump said he had a "very productive" call with Netanyahu and "and there will be no Troops going to Beirut, and any Troops that are on their way, have already been turned back."
"Likewise, through highly placed Representatives, I had a very good call with Hezbollah, and they agreed that all shooting will stop — That Israel will not attack them, and they will not attack Israel."
Trump also said on Monday that negotiations with Iran were "continuing at a rapid pace." Iranian officials have not reacted publicly to the developments.
